Superior mesenteric artery aneurysm endovascular repair

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) aneurysms are uncommon but carry a high risk of rupture and mortality.
• Current guidelines advocate for the treatment of all SMA aneurysms, irrespective of size.

Observation:

• A 53-year-old female presented with abdominal pain and was diagnosed with a 14-cm ruptured SMA branch aneurysm.
• The patient underwent an endovascular procedure involving microvascular plug embolization and stent graft exclusion.

Findings:

• The endovascular treatment resulted in successful exclusion of the aneurysm sac and embolization of the feeding branch.
• Four months post-procedure, a 21% regression in aneurysm size was observed, with confirmed stent graft patency.

Implications:

• This case highlights the efficacy of endovascular techniques in managing complex SMA aneurysms.
• Timely diagnosis and intervention can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality associated with ruptured SMA aneurysms.