Why Do You Need a Venogram for May- Thurner Syndrome

May-Thurner syndrome is caused by compression of the left iliac vein by the right iliac artery. It is as if we press a hose between our fingers, so the venous blood returns with difficulty from the lower limb to the heart. In addition, the pressure and pulsations of the artery may cause damage and scarring in the vein walls. Consequence: people with this condition can easily develop deep vein thrombosis in the lower left limb.

There are people who suffer from May-Thurner syndrome all their lives, without knowing it. It is found mainly in young women and sedentary people and requires endovascular treatment. Endovascular treatment has low risks and recovery is rapid. If your doctor decides that a treatment for May-Thurner syndrome is necessary for you, but you ignore it, keep in mind that your health will aggravate and there may be serious consequences.

A venogram is very important to identify the problem and determine the need for endovascular treatment. Alternatively, other non-invasive tests may be performed, such as Doppler ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, or phlebography.

A vascular surgeon will recommend a treatment for May Thurner’s Syndrome with two goals: to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis or to treat deep vein thrombosis that has already formed, thus relieving the symptoms and possible future complications, such as venous ulcer.