Vascular Compressions
Vascular compression syndromes are a group of conditions that occur when a person's blood vessels are under abnormal pressure, limiting the size of the blood vessel and the amount of blood that flows through it.
The lack of blood flow can make a person feel weak, can cause mild to extreme pain, and will show different symptoms from person to person.
Vascular compressions can happen in different parts of the body. Compression syndromes have different names depending on where in the body the issue is.
Because of the variety of syndromes and symptoms, they can often be misdiagnosed. This can lead to years of pain, frustration and mental anguish.
At the University of Maryland Heart and Vascular Center, our surgeons regularly see patients with vascular compressions. Our familiarity with the different syndromes gives us the expertise to accurately diagnose and effectively treat these conditions.
If you are experiencing symptoms of vascular compressions but haven't found a solution, our team of experts can help determine if a compression is the issue. If so, they can provide treatment to help you find relief.
To make an appointment with one of our vascular surgeons, call 410-328-5840.
Symptoms and Types of Vascular Compressions
Vascular compressions are named for their location in the body and which blood vessel is affected, and each has different symptoms.
Some compressions never show symptoms and don't affect a person's day-to-day life.
Symptoms can also be painful and debilitating. They vary from person to person, even if the compression occurs in the same place.
Types of vascular compressions include:
- May-Thurner Syndrome (Left iliac vein compression): occurs near the pelvis and can cause deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This condition in most common in middle-aged women.
- Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS): occurs in the abdomen and is most noticeable when eating or during activity
- Nutcracker Syndrome (Left renal vein entrapment syndrome): occurs in the abdomen and can cause pain and blood in the urine
- Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMA syndrome): a digestive condition that can be severely debilitating
- Popliteal Entrapment Syndrome: occurs in the legs and is most noticeable while walking or during strenuous activity
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: pain is most noticeable near your collarbone and the top of your rib cage
Diagnosis
Because of the variety of symptoms vascular compressions can show, the conditions can often be misdiagnosed.
Because UM Heart and Vascular Center experts see patients with compressions regularly, we have a plan to diagnose each type of syndrome.
Using advanced imaging, we will put you through tests to help show us if you are in fact suffering from a vascular compression.
Treatments
The goal of treatment is to release pressure on the blood vessel, allowing blood to flow better and making symptoms lessen or go away.
Depending on which type of vascular compression you have, we will suggest different ways to treat it. We treat each patient differently and will help you find the best treatment for your condition.
Our surgeons are trained in the latest surgical approaches, including minimally invasive options, and we will work with you to find the best treatment option.
Make an Appointment
Have you been experiencing these symptoms, but haven't gotten a diagnosis that leads to helpful treatment? Make an appointment with us so we can help you discover if you are experiencing a vascular compression. Call us at 410-328-5840.
If you have any questions about vascular compressions or possible symptoms, we encourage you to ask. You may also learn more about vascular compressions in this video.