Colorado’s Representative Lauren Boebert recently underwent an emergency operation to remove a blood clot, following which she was diagnosed with May-Thurner syndrome, a rare vascular condition that impacts blood flow. The 37-year-old Republican representative was rushed to UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland after she reported swelling in her upper left leg.
Medical professionals at the center discovered an acute blood clot and diagnosed Boebert with May-Thurner syndrome after performing a CT scan. A surgical procedure was promptly scheduled and carried out on Tuesday morning to eliminate the clot and alleviate her symptoms. A stent, a small tube made of metal mesh, was inserted to restore blood flow.
May-Thurner syndrome is a vascular disorder where an artery compresses the left iliac vein, obstructing blood flow from the leg back to the heart. While some individuals may not exhibit symptoms, long-term complications can include swelling, venous ulcers, and blood clots that could potentially lead to severe health risks such as strokes and heart attacks.
The exact cause of Boebert’s diagnosis is still unclear, but her campaign has pointed to potential factors such as dehydration, travel, and prolonged periods of sitting. The syndrome is also more common in women aged between 20 and 45 who have given birth.
Boebert expressed her gratitude to the medical team and voiced her eagerness to recover fully and resume her duties in Congress, advocating for Colorado. She extended her thanks to Dr. Rebecca Bade and the entire team at UCHealth Medical Center for their care and insightful advice.
No specific timeline has been provided for Boebert’s return to Washington, DC. Her hospitalization comes at a time when she is campaigning for Colorado’s 4th District seat in the forthcoming November election. Boebert, who is seeking a more GOP-friendly district, announced in December that she would not run for re-election for her current seat in Colorado’s 3rd District.
While Boebert’s campaign has not disclosed further details about her current health status, it is anticipated that she will make a full recovery.