A condition that can cause pain and swelling in the affected part of the body

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Veins are blood vessels that return blood to the heart. Venous occlusion describes a condition in which a vein becomes narrowed, blocked or compressed by nearby structures such as clots, muscles, arteries or other veins. This can result in blood pooling and flowing backward, causing swelling and pain in the area.

Examples of venous occlusion include May-Thurner syndrome, in which the left iliac vein in the pelvis is compressed by the right iliac artery; and nutcracker syndrome, in which a vein that carries blood out of the kidney is pinched by nearby arteries.

Our Vascular and Endovascular Program team will work with you to develop a treatment plan to manage your symptoms and help avoid serious complications. Venous occlusion can increase your risk of a blood clot in a deep vein, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

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Tests

Diagnosing venous occlusion is the first step to developing a treatment plan. Our specialists may recommend one or more diagnostic and imaging procedures.

Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan

The cardiac computed tomography scan, or cardiac CT, uses X-rays to create three-dimensional images of your heart and blood vessels.

Fluoroscopy

A fluoroscopy is an imaging technique that uses a continuous X-ray beam passed through the body to create real-time, moving images of your internal structures.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging, better known as cardiac MRI, is a combination of radio waves, magnets and computer technology to create images of your heart and blood vessels.

Treatments

Treatment for venous occlusion will depend on the location and severity of the occlusion. Your doctor may recommend medications such as blood-thinning drugs to prevent blood clots or clot-dissolving medications, or procedures such as angioplasty or stenting to widen a vein.

Venous Stenting

Venous stenting uses a wire mesh tube placed within a vein to widen it and improve blood flow.