Unusual locations of pseudo aneurysms as a sequel of chronic pancreatitis

In patients with chronic pancreatitis, an actively bleeding pseudo aneurysm can be life threatening. Common sites of pseudoaneurysms are splenic, gastro-duodenal, superior & inferior pancreaticoduodenal arterial branches. Angioembolisation is an effective alternative to a complex and morbid operative management. Here we report 4 cases of unusual sites of pseudoaneurysms as a complication of pancreatitis, involving superior mesenteric and inferior phrenic arteries. Successful angioembolisation using glue and coil was achieved in 3 patients where as one underwent surgery. Technical success was 100% with the combination approach, though one patient died from multiorgan failure. This short case series reiterates the importance of vascular complications in pancreatitis at rare sites and also timely combined radiological and surgical approach for ensuring favorable outcome.