May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS) involves extrinsic compression of an iliac vein by an overiding blood vessel. This compression can result in deep vein thrombosis and edema of a lower extremity.
The usual case involves compression of the left common iliac vein by the right common iliac artery.
Alternatives may include:
(1) compression of the left common iliac vein by the left common iliac artery
(2) compression of the right common iliac vein by the left common iliac artery, in combination with a left-sided inferior vena cava
Consequences of the compression may include:
(1) deep vein thrombosis
(2) development of venous collaterals to drain into nonobstructed veins
(3) edema of a lower extremity
(4) postphlebitis syndrome
(5) iliac vein rupture
(6) atrophy of the affected iliac vein
The diagnosis can be made by imaging studies. It is important to know the anatomic situation prior to planning an intervention.
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