Pelvic Venous Disease
What is Pelvic Venous Disease?
Symptoms of Pelvic Venous Congestion Syndrome (PVCS) include:
Symptoms of Pelvic Venous Congestion Syndrome (PVCS) include:
- Chronic pelvic pain lasting six months or longer
- Pain that worsens with standing or physical activity
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the pelvis
- Visible varicose veins in the buttocks, thighs, or vaginal area
- Painful menstrual periods
Causes of Pelvic Venous Congestion Syndrome (PVCS)
The most common causes of PVCS include:
- Malfunctioning or weakened vein valves
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy
- Anatomical variations or abnormalities in pelvic veins
Increased pressure on pelvic veins due to prolonged standing or heavy lifting
Pelvic Venous Congestion Syndrome (PVCS) Risk Factors
There are many factors that may heighten a patient’s risk of developing PVCS, including:
- Pregnancy, due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes
- Multiple pregnancies, which can exacerbate vein stress and valve dysfunction
- Family history of varicose veins or venous disorders
- Hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated estrogen levels
- Prolonged periods of standing or heavy lifting
- Pelvic surgery or trauma that may affect vein function
Diagnosing Pelvic Venous Congestion Syndrome (PVCS)
While many women may experience pelvic pain at some point in their lives, it’s not always caused by the congestion of blood vessels or veins. For this reason, it’s often difficult for doctors to diagnose PVCS.
The vascular specialists at Pedes Orange County use a combination of advanced imaging techniques to accurately diagnose pelvic venous disease including pelvic venous congestion syndrome in our patients. These imaging techniques include:
- Pelvic or abdominal ultrasound
- Pelvic or abdominal CT and MRI scans
- Pelvic venography using X-ray imaging
Pelvic Venous Congestion Syndrome (PVCS) Treatment
May-Thurner Syndrome
May-Thurner Syndrome is a pelvic venous condition where the right iliac artery compresses the left iliac vein, stopping normal blood flow from the legs to the heart. This compression can lead to symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, and an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing this condition effectively and preventing complications.
Symptoms of May-Thurner Syndrome include:
- Persistent leg pain, often in the left leg
- Swelling in the legs, especially after prolonged periods of standing or sitting
- A feeling of heaviness or fatigue in the affected leg
- Visible varicose veins in the leg or pelvic area
- Skin discoloration or ulcers on the lower extremities
While May-Thurner Syndrome commonly affects women, it is important to note that men may also develop the condition. If you suspect your male loved one may have May-Thurner Syndrome based on the above symptoms, we encourage you to seek medical attention for him right away.
Causes of May-Thurner Syndrome
May-Thurner Syndrome occurs when the left iliac vein is compressed by the right iliac artery, leading to restricted blood flow and vein irritation. This can be exacerbated by factors such as prolonged immobility or previous venous injury.
Common causes of May-Thurner Syndrome include:
- Compression of the left iliac vein by the right iliac artery
- Prolonged periods of immobility or sedentary lifestyle
- Previous injury or trauma to the pelvic area
- Blood clotting disorders or previous deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
May-Thurner Syndrome Risk Factors
Common factors that may increase your risk of developing May-Thurner Syndrome include:
- Long periods of sitting or bed rest, which can exacerbate venous compression and blood flow issues
- History of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Anatomical variations that predispose individuals to the condition
Diagnosing May-Thurner Syndrome
At Pedes Orange County, our vascular doctors use a combination of advanced imaging techniques to accurately diagnose pelvic venous disease including May-Thurner Syndrome in our patients. These
Imaging techniques include:
- Pelvic or abdominal ultrasound
- Pelvic or abdominal CT and MRI scans
Pelvic venography using X-ray imaging
May-Thurner Syndrome Treatment
We provide comprehensive treatment for May-Thurner Syndrome, utilizing advanced techniques such as angioplasty and stenting to alleviate vein compression and restore normal blood flow. In cases where
deep vein thrombosis is present, we may also employ IVC filter placement to prevent blood clots from traveling to the lungs. Our approach ensures that patients receive thorough and effective care tailored to their specific needs.
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Our Vascular Disease Physicians
The physicians at Pedes Orange County devote their lives to saving limbs and minimizing pain. Our conveniently located, state-of-the-art facility is designed for your comfort and utilizes cutting-edge technology to provide minimally invasive treatments. Our vascular specialists are board-certified and some of the best in Southern California. Personable staff members make every visit a positive experience, with short wait times and an efficient, streamlined process that ensures you leave feeling educated and confident that you are in good hands.
J. Joseph Hewett, M.D.
Vascular Specialist
Neil K. Goldstein, M.D.
Vascular Specialist
Mohammad R. Jaber, M.D.
Vascular Specialist
Derrick Tran, MD
Vascular Specialist
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