Republican congresswoman Lauren Boebert has disclosed her diagnosis of May-Thurner Syndrome, a condition seldom diagnosed, with a higher prevalence among women. Boebert, representing Colorado, received the diagnosis during surgery to address a severe blood clot. Hospitalized due to pronounced swelling in her upper left leg, as confirmed by her campaign team on Tuesday, Boebert underwent successful surgery and is anticipated to fully recuperate.
May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) is a condition characterized by a compression of the left iliac vein by the right iliac artery in the pelvis, hindering blood flow. While not inherently dangerous, it can predispose individuals to complications and health risks.
The syndrome may manifest without symptoms, earning it the designation of being “clinically silent” by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH). However, diminished blood flow increases the likelihood of blood clot formation, which could potentially lead to life-threatening blockages if they travel to vital organs such as the heart, lungs, or brain.
Symptoms of MTS may include pain or cramping in the limbs, accompanied by swelling, skin discoloration, and pronounced veins. Confirmation of diagnosis often involves a CT scan, as demonstrated in Ms. Boebert’s case.
Regarding its causes, medical experts remain uncertain, though they believe certain demographic groups are more susceptible. Despite being potentially more widespread than diagnosed cases suggest, the exact origins remain elusive.
Boebert’s team highlighted that “women aged 20 to 45 who have undergone childbirth are at higher risk of May-Thurner syndrome,” aligning with guidance from the Cleveland Clinic, a prominent non-profit medical institution overseeing multiple hospitals across the United States.
As a 37-year-old mother of four, Boebert falls within this demographic profile.
Treatment for MTS is often unnecessary for many individuals who do not experience symptoms requiring intervention.Medical options include the insertion of a stent, a small tube to maintain the openness of the compressed vein, which was the treatment received by Ms. Boebert, as stated by her team.
In some cases, surgical interventions such as repositioning the compressing artery or establishing a new pathway for the vein may be considered to restore normal blood flow.For individuals with MTS and blood clots, medications may be prescribed to dissolve the clots. Those with mild symptoms might receive recommendations from their healthcare provider to wear compression socks on their lower legs to enhance blood circulation.