Pancreatitis Secondary to Celiac Trunk Dissection

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Abdominal Imaging

Background:

• Visceral artery dissection is uncommon, with the superior mesenteric artery most frequently involved.
• Isolated celiac trunk dissection is exceptionally rare, with limited documented cases.
• Pancreatitis can be associated with visceral artery pathologies.

Observation:

• A 51-year-old male presented with abdominal pain.
• Diagnosis revealed celiac trunk dissection with secondary pancreatitis and pancreatic infarction.
• Conservative medical management led to symptom improvement.

Findings:

• Celiac trunk dissection can occur as a complication of pancreatitis.
• Pancreatic infarction is a potential consequence of celiac trunk dissection.
• Conservative treatment may be effective for celiac trunk dissection.

Implications:

• Highlights celiac trunk dissection as a potential, often unrecognized, complication of pancreatitis.
• Suggests a conservative management approach may be suitable for select cases.
• Emphasizes the importance of considering vascular complications in pancreatitis management.