Sonographic Evaluation of Pelvic Venous Disorders

Abstract

Pelvic venous disorders are a group of interrelated conditions characterized by venous incompetence. These conditions often manifest with nonspecific symptoms that overlap with many gynecological, gastrointestinal, and urologic diseases. Clinical diagnosis can be difficult, and imaging can play a vital role in differentiating etiology. Sonographic evaluation is often the first step in evaluating these symptoms. Special attention to possible underlying pelvic venous disorders can reveal characteristic findings, support diagnosis, and guide treatment.Here we review pelvic congestion syndrome, nutcracker syndrome, May-Thurner syndrome, and other venous disorders, with a specific focus on sonographic findings and considerations.