Anaesthetic management of median arcuate ligament syndrome

Median arcuate ligament syndrome, also known as celiac artery compression syndrome, is a rare and unusual clinical disorder. Its symptoms are non-specific, which complicates its diagnosis, and a multidisciplinary approach is required to treat the disorder. The ligament is circumferentially cleared by laparoscopy. Selective angiography and endovascular techniques may be used after laparoscopy. Vital organs and important vascular structures can be injured during the surgery. The combination of different procedures, as well as the high risk of damage, make this process a significant challenge for the anaesthetist. During corrective surgery for median arcuate ligament syndrome, general anaesthesia must be adapted to the various haemodynamic and ventilatory requirements, and strict control of pain established, as oral tolerance is a key factor in the post-operative recovery of these patients.