Non-Thrombotic Iliac Vein Lesion (NIVL) is more commonly known as May-Thurner Syndrome and is a condition affecting the iliac veins and arteries in the pelvis. This condition can cause blood to pool in the legs, as well as hinder the flow of blood from the legs to the heart. Dr. James McGuckin, the experienced physician at Pennsylvania Vascular Institute in Stroudsburg, Bethlehem, Limerick, King Of Prussia, and Philadelphia, PA, diagnoses and treats May-Thurner Syndrome or NIVL.
What is May-Thurner Syndrome?
The iliac veins and arteries travel through the pelvic region of the body. The right iliac artery carries blood to the right leg, while the left iliac vein carries blood from the left leg to the heart. May-Thurner Syndrome occurs when the right iliac artery compresses the left iliac vein where they cross one another in the pelvis. The pressure of the artery on the left iliac vein inhibits the flow of blood, which can cause blood to pool in the leg veins. This increases the risk of blood clots forming, which can lead to more serious health conditions.
Symptoms of May-Thurner Syndrome
Many individuals with May-Thurner Syndrome do not even realize they have it because they might not have any symptoms. The condition is often discovered only after a patient is first diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis, a condition in which a blood clot forms in a leg vein. Signs you have deep vein thrombosis, and possibly May-Thurner Syndrome include leg pain, swelling, tenderness, throbbing or heaviness, as well as warm skin. Changes in the color of the skin and veins that appear larger than usual are also signs of a vein disorder.
Treating May-Thurner Syndrome
At our offices in Stroudsburg, Bethlehem, Limerick, King Of Prussia, and Philadelphia, PA, May-Thurner Syndrome is treated similarly to other conditions where there is a narrowing of or blockage in the veins. First, a venogram is performed that allows the doctor to view the veins in your body and pinpoint the exact location of the narrowing or blockage. A stent can then be placed in the area to permanently hold the vein open, allowing blood to flow freely once again. Symptoms such as leg discomfort should eventually subside once the vein is permanently opened.
Non-Thrombotic Iliac Vein Lesion or May-Thurner Syndrome can lead to more serious problems if treatment is not sought.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. McGuckin to discuss treatments for May-Thurner Syndrome by calling Pennsylvania Vascular Institute in Stroudsburg, Bethlehem, Limerick, King Of Prussia, and Philadelphia, PA, at (800) 296-9294.