Lauren Boebert’s blood clot raises awareness about May-Thurner syndrome

DENVER (KDVR) — Colorado U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert is recovering after having emergency surgery to remove a blood clot in her leg.

Her campaign announced that she was admitted to UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland after experiencing some severe swelling in her upper left leg. The clot was surgically removed and a stent was inserted after Boebert was diagnosed with May-Thurner syndrome.

Dr. E. Brooke Spencer is an interventional radiologist in Highlands Ranch who treats patients with this syndrome but has no connection to Boebert.

“May-Thurner syndrome is a compression of that iliac vein by the artery,” Spencer said.

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She said 30% of the population has the syndrome but only a small percentage develop blood clots.

“People usually show up with signs of pain and swelling, or blue discoloration in their leg, aching in the leg, sometimes in the groin. I see a lot of people who think they have a hernia at first,” Spencer said.

The cause of the syndrome is not fully understood, but doctors say women between 20 and 40 who have given birth are more likely to be affected.

“If it’s treated correctly and appropriately most people can get back to a level where they may have some swelling intermittently throughout their life or have to wear a compression sock, but they usually get back to normal function pretty quickly,” Spencer said.

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On X Boebert posted a note of thanks for all the support she’s received.

“Hoping to see you all back on the campaign trail soon,” she said.

Her experience has raised awareness. Spencer said to minimize the risk of a blood clot, people should wear compression stockings, get up and walk around on long flights and take breaks during long drives.

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