Abstract
Compression of the left common iliac vein by the overlying right common iliac artery has become an increasingly common finding in the era of advanced imaging modalities, albeit with a benign course in most individuals. However, patients with significant vein compression are at risk of developing May-Thurner syndrome, defined as unilateral left leg swelling or acute iliofemoral deep venous thrombosis in conjunction with this venous compression. The development of symptoms is likely due to a combination of venous outflow obstruction and chronic intraluminal damage to the affected vein. Although identifiable by less invasive imaging, pathologic compression of the left iliac vein is best identified by venography with intravascular ultrasound, which has become the gold standard for diagnosis and is useful in guiding therapy. Iliocaval stenting has become the standard treatment for this condition and is associated with excellent patency rates and clinical outcomes.
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References
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DeRubertis, B., Patel, R. (2018). May-Thurner Syndrome: Diagnosis and Management. In: Chaar, C. (eds) Current Management of Venous Diseases . Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-65226-9_35
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