May-Thurner syndrome

May-Thurner syndrome (MTS), also recognized as Cockett syndrome, manifests as a clinical condition due to compression of the ilio-caval anatomical unit against the underlying bone. A publication in the Cardiovascular Diagnosis and Therapy journal underscores that MTS predominantly affects women within their third to fifth decades of life. The prevalent manifestation observed in these cases is a venous hypertension. Notably, individuals might present with symptoms of acute heaviness and swelling in the left lower limb, often linked to activity. Clinical examination, complemented by venous duplex ultrasound of the affected extremity, frequently confirms a unilateral lower limb swelling.
Whenever suspicion lingers on the possibility of MTS, the application of cross-sectional imaging is necessary. The purpose lies in scrutinizing the ilio-caval domain to pinpoint the presence of stenotic lesions. Both multi-detector computed tomography venography and magnetic resonance venography emerge as important imaging modalities.
Upon encountering patients with MTS and concurrent acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT), the foremost step should be initiating anticoagulation therapy. On the other hand, patients presenting with chronic venous insufficiency will benefits from procedures such as angioplasty and stent placement. It's noteworthy that while surgical intervention remains a viable option, it tends to be less favored due to associated morbidity and suboptimal outcomes.