Venous Disease
Iliac Vein Compression Syndrome
Iliac vein compression syndrome can cause significant swelling in the lower extremities and venous insufficiency. Symptoms can range from swelling/edema and significant varicose veins, to leg heaviness and discomfort that interferes with daily activities and overall quality of life.
Iliac vein compression syndrome is commonly brought on by perivenous fibrosis secondary to scar tissue from prior intra-abdominal surgeries, or scarring caused by prior deep venous thrombosis or venous inflammation. Other etiologies include classic May-Thurner syndrome.
The medical professionals at Louisiana Cardiovascular and Nephrology Center of Excellence have the ability to utilize the latest minimally invasive techniques to diagnose and treat iliac vein compression syndrome. Treatments may include balloon angioplasty or stenting to the affected vein and results in significant reduction in edema and improvements in mobility, quality of life, and ability to perform routine activities.
Deep Venous Thrombosis
Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) can be acute or chronic. Both conditions limit blood flow out of the vein causing symptoms very similar to those of iliac vein compression syndrome, although with an acute DVT there is usually an associated component of localized substantial pain, redness and swelling.
Treatment of an acute DVT in some instances may be best served by a combination of anticoagulants, and depending on the location of the clot, thrombectomy or thrombus removal.
Chronic deep venous thrombosis that causes significant lower extremity edema, swelling, varicose veins, venous stasis, and leg heaviness can usually be successfully treated with balloons or stents which will result in improved venous outflow and reduction of lower extremity symptoms.
Do you have a history of prior DVT or intra-abdominal surgeries?
If you have had a history of prior deep venous thrombosis or prior intra-abdominal surgeries and are suffering from lower extremity swelling, varicose veins, venous wounds / poorly healing wounds of lower extremity, or significant leg heaviness as the day progresses, you may have a component of venous insufficiency with associated perivenous fibrosis or iliac vein compression syndrome. We have the ability to rapidly diagnose and treat this condition and improve your quality of life.