Celiac artery compression syndrome: diagnosis with multislice CT

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Vascular Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Celiac artery compression syndrome (MALS) is a rare condition.
• It involves the narrowing of the celiac artery root by the median arcuate ligament.
• This compression leads to insufficient blood supply to the gastrointestinal tract, causing postprandial intestinal angina.

Observation:

• Three cases of celiac artery compression syndrome were identified.
• The primary diagnostic tool used was multislice computed tomography (MSCT).
• MSCT allowed for detailed visualization of the celiac artery and the compressing median arcuate ligament.

Findings:

• The study successfully diagnosed three patients with celiac artery compression syndrome.
• Multislice computed tomography proved to be an effective imaging modality for this diagnosis.
• The characteristic compression of the celiac artery during expiration was visualized.

Implications:

• This case series highlights the utility of MSCT in diagnosing MALS.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for managing patients with postprandial intestinal angina.
• Further research may explore optimal management strategies for diagnosed cases.