Acute abdomen resulting from concurrent thrombosis of celiac trunk and superior mesenteric artery

Savaş Bayrak1, Hasan Bektas1, Yigit Duzkoylu1

  • 1Istanbul Training and Research Hospital, General Surgery Clinic, Fatih, 34098 Istanbul, Turkey.

Insights

Mesenteric ischemia, a severe gastrointestinal condition, often stems from superior mesenteric artery blockages. This report details a rare case of simultaneous obstruction in both the superior mesenteric artery and celiac trunk.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Vascular Surgery
  • Abdominal Imaging

Background:

  • Mesenteric ischemia is a critical gastrointestinal disease with high mortality, frequently caused by superior mesenteric artery embolism or thrombosis.
  • While celiac trunk occlusion is rare, concurrent obstruction of major mesenteric vessels presents a unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.
  • Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management and improved patient outcomes in acute mesenteric ischemia.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a rare case of concurrent obstruction of the superior mesenteric artery and celiac trunk.
  • To highlight the diagnostic considerations and potential management strategies for this complex vascular presentation.
  • To contribute to the understanding of rare etiologies of acute abdomen and mesenteric ischemia.

Main Methods:

  • Case report detailing clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging (e.g., CT angiography), and treatment approach.
  • Review of relevant literature on isolated and combined mesenteric and celiac artery occlusions.
  • Multidisciplinary team discussion involving gastroenterology, vascular surgery, and radiology.

Main Results:

  • The patient presented with acute abdomen secondary to simultaneous superior mesenteric artery and celiac trunk obstruction.
  • Diagnostic imaging confirmed the concurrent occlusion of both major visceral arteries.
  • The case underscores the importance of comprehensive vascular assessment in suspected mesenteric ischemia.

Conclusions:

  • Concurrent obstruction of the superior mesenteric artery and celiac trunk is an exceptionally rare but critical condition.
  • Prompt diagnosis through advanced imaging is essential for timely intervention.
  • This case emphasizes the need for heightened awareness among clinicians regarding complex mesenteric vascular pathologies.

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