The relationship between May-Thurner syndrome and varicocele in men: a narrative review

May-Thurner syndrome (MTS), defined by compression of the left common iliac vein, increases left gonadal-vein pressure and may underlie otherwise varicoceles. This narrative review synthesises 25 relevant publications: case reports, series, observational and interventional studieas. Pooled evidence indicates that 67–90% of men with varicocele exhibit at least 25% iliac-venous compression, and that successful iliac stenting leads to regression of varicocele symptoms and improved fertility. The diagnostic value of combining duplex ultrasound with computed tomographic/magnetic resonance venography is highlighted, whereas catheter venography with intravascular ultrasound remains the reference for confirming haemodynamic significance. Gaps in data regarding long-term stent patency and the epidemiology of MTS in asymptomatic males have been identified. It advocates systematic iliac-vein assessment in men presenting with recurrent or bilateral varicocele and calls for prospective multicentre trials comparing surgical ligation with endovascular correction.