The presentation and management of aneurysms of the pancreaticoduodenal arcade

Clinical Characteristics and Management of Peripancreatic Arterial Aneurysms: A 20-year Experience

Pancreaticoduodenal and gastroduodenal artery aneurysms (PDAAs and GDAAs) are rare visceral aneurysms. Considering the rupture risk regardless of size, treatment should be provided promptly. We reviewed the characteristics and management of peripancreatic aneurysms in a retrospective, single-center review of consecutive patients with PDAAs and GDAAs between 2000 and 2022. Demographics, clinical characteristics, radiologic features, treatment, and outcomes were recorded. Nineteen PDAAs and seven GDAAs were identified in 24 patients. The median sizes of the PDAAs and GDAAs were 21 mm (range: 8-50 mm) and 14 mm (range: 11-32 mm), respectively. There were 4 ruptured cases (15.4%). Ten aneurysms (38.5%) had concomitant visceral aneurysms, and 16 (61.6%) were associated with celiac pathology. Aneurysms were managed using endovascular in 12 (46.2%), surgical in 4 (15.4%), and combined methods in 3 (11.5%) cases; 7 patients (26.9%) were lost to follow-up or refused treatments. During a median 13.8-month follow-up (range: 1-147.6), two complications (7.7%) occurred including pancreatitis and coil migration into the superior mesenteric artery after embolization within 30 days. After 30 days, aorto-common hepatic artery bypass graft stenosis was identified in one PDAA. Depending on the characteristics of peripancreatic aneurysms, endovascular, surgical, and hybrid approaches might all be practical treatment options.

Relationship between peripancreatic collateral circulation development and aneurysm presence in celiac trunk stenosis

OBJECTIVE

Celiac trunk (CeT) stenosis can lead to the development of collateral circulation and aneurysm formation through the pancreatic arteries; however, the relationship between specific collateral patterns and aneurysm development or rupture remains unclear. Here we evaluated the association between collateral circulation characteristics and aneurysm formation in patients with CeT stenosis.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 233 patients with CeT stenosis from a single tertiary care center. The patients were categorized into ruptured aneurysm (n = 24), unruptured aneurysm (n = 105), and stenosis or occlusion without aneurysm (n = 104) groups. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography images were evaluated for collateral circulation patterns, the presence of the arc of Bühler, vessel diameters, and aneurysm characteristics. Multivariate analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with aneurysm presence.

RESULTS

The presence of the arc of Bühler showed the strongest association with aneurysm presence, followed by pancreaticoduodenal arcade (PD arc) development grade. The arc of Bühler was observed in 79.2% of ruptured aneurysms and 75.2% of unruptured aneurysms, compared with 13.5% in the stenosis or occlusion group. The presence of the arc of Bühler showed the strongest association with aneurysm presence (adjusted odds ratio, 18.40; 95% confidence interval, 8.33-44.20; P < .001), followed by PD arc development grade (adjusted odds ratio, 2.19; 95% confidence interval, 1.19-4.16; P = .014). Aneurysm size did not differ significantly between ruptured and unruptured aneurysms (P = .410).

CONCLUSIONS

The arc of Bühler and PD arc development were associated strongly with the presence of aneurysms in patients with CeT stenosis. The lack of correlation between aneurysm size and rupture occurrence supports the current guidelines recommending treatment, irrespective of the aneurysm size. These findings suggest that evaluating collateral pathways may help to identify patients who might benefit from closer monitoring or early intervention.

Gastroduodenal artery aneurysm/ pseudoaneurysm: a systematic review of reported cases

Background

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the clinical characteristics of patients with gastroduodenal artery aneurysm (GDA), identified risk factors associated with poor clinical outcomes, and elucidated potential differences between various GDA etiologies.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted from January 2000 to October 2023 in the PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar databases. The analysis focused on extracting data regarding clinical presentations, diagnostic modalities, and patient outcomes.

Results

This meta-analysis included data from 224 patients derived from 207 case reports spanning 47 countries over a 23-year period. The majority of patients presented with comorbidity (85.3%) and had a predisposing factor for GDA (71.9%). The diagnostic accuracy of the three most common diagnostic investigations-namely angiography, abdominal computed tomography, and ultrasound-was 100.0%, 86.2%, and 59.6%, respectively. Transarterial embolization (75.0%) and surgery (24.1%) were the two most common therapeutic approaches. Emergent treatment for GDA was necessary in 31.7% of patients. Notably, hemostasis was achieved after the initial treatment attempt in 82.6% of patients. The in-hospital mortality rate was 6.7%, with complications occurring in 16.1% of cases. A higher percentage of patients with a complicated hospital course were subjected to observation management and presented with shock during hospitalization.

Conclusions

Patients with GDA often have comorbidities and predisposing factors. Clinical presentations of GDA were found to include abdominal pain, hemorrhage, and obstruction of peripheral structures in the vicinity of the gastroduodenal artery. Splanchnic artery angiography and abdominal computed tomography are recognized as the most accurate tools for diagnosing GDA. Endovascular management is the mainstay treatment approach for most patients and have a high rate of hemostasis success during the initial intervention. Surgical intervention is also a practical treatment. Conservative management with observation management may lead to a complicated hospital course, highlighting the potential benefit of aggressive treatment strategies for GDA. Patients with pancreatitis exhibited more comorbidities, predisposing factors, and a broader spectrum of clinical manifestations compared to those without pancreatitis. However, the in-hospital mortality rate was lower in the pancreatitis group, likely due to the younger age of the patients and the more prominent clinical presentations, which prompted earlier and more extensive diagnostic imaging studies.

Pancreaticoduodenal Artery Aneurysm in a Patient with Celiac Artery Atresia

BACKGROUND

Visceral artery aneurysms have an array of presentations and management strategies. Pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms (PDAAs) are rare, potentially lethal, and necessitate treatment. We present the case of a PDAA in a patient with a congenitally hypoplastic celiac artery treated by open surgical reconstruction.

CASE REPORT

A 60-year-old female presented with an incidental 2-cm proximal inferior PDAA. Significantly, her celiac trunk was hypoplastic and all flow to the hepatic, gastric, and splenic arteries stemmed from a dilated superior mesenteric artery. The PDAA was located 1 cm from the origin of the pancreaticoduodenal artery at the superior mesenteric artery and was adhered to the fourth portion of the duodenum. Considering her anatomy, open repair with reconstruction of the pancreaticoduodenal artery was pursued via a midline laparotomy, resection of the PDAA, and primary end-to-side pancreaticoduodenal artery to superior mesenteric artery reconstruction. There was an excellent flow into the pancreaticoduodenal artery, gastroduodenal artery, and their emanating branches intraoperatively and on postoperative imaging. The patient progressed well and was discharged home on postoperative day 5. Liver function tests were serially checked and were within normal limits upon discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate a safe and successful surgical option for patients with PDAA who required preserved gastroduodenal aneurysm flow.

Large gastroduodenal artery pseudoaneurysm and arterioportal fistula in chronic pancreatitis

Visceral artery pseudoaneurysms, particularly those in the gastroduodenal artery (GDA), are rare but serious complications associated with chronic pancreatitis, posing a significant risk of rupture due to their structural fragility. In this case, a 61-year-old male with a history of chronic pancreatitis, alcohol cirrhosis, duodenal ulcer, and COPD presented with persistent abdominal pain and recurrent fevers. Imaging revealed a 7 cm pseudoaneurysm between the GDA and superior mesenteric vein, which was successfully treated with coil embolization. This case highlights the importance of prompt recognition and intervention in managing GDA pseudoaneurysms, particularly when complicated by an arterioportal fistula, and demonstrates the efficacy of endovascular therapy as a minimally invasive treatment option that can significantly improve patient outcomes in complex vascular complications associated with chronic pancreatitis.

Life-threatening event in laparoscopic hepatic surgery: Training curriculum on sudden hepatic artery haemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Exposure of the hepatic artery is a fundamental step in many surgeries, during which iatrogenic hepatic artery injury may occur. Although the incidence of hepatic artery haemorrhage is low, its occurrence can lead to life-threatening haemorrhage. It is difficult and dangerous to accumulate clinical experience in laparoscopic hepatic artery repair in actual patients, and simulation training models for laparoscopic hepatic artery repair are currently lacking. In this study, a 3D printed model was designed to simulate the training curriculum for sudden hepatic artery haemorrhage, but whether training with the 3D printed model could yield superior skill improvement for surgeons remained to be determined.

METHODS

A new 3D printed model was designed for this study. Surgeons from the General Surgery Department of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital participated in this simulation training. The surgical performance of each model was compared, and the authenticity of the model was evaluated and mechanically tested.

RESULTS

Experienced surgeons performed better on the 3D printed model. After repeated training, inexperienced surgeons showed significant improvement of their laparoscopic hepatic artery repair skills. The authenticity of the model was generally satisfactory, but shortcomings persisted in the mechanical testing of artery wall tearing, necessitating further improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Few studies have investigated laparoscopic simulation training for sudden hepatic artery haemorrhage. This simulation model distinguishes surgeons with different levels of experience and allows those with less experience to improve their laparoscopic hepatic artery repair skills through training on the model.

Endovascular Treatment of Unruptured Pancreatic Arcade Aneurysms

PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of endovascular treatment of unruptured pancreatic arcade aneurysms in a single-center series.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The electronic medical records of patients who underwent endovascular treatment for unruptured pancreatic arcade aneurysms between 2011 and 2022 at our tertiary center were retrospectively reviewed. The presence of celiac artery stenosis/occlusion; aneurysm number, location, and size; endovascular technique; procedure-related complication incidence; and clinical outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients (12 men and 11 women; mean [range] age, 63.8 [45-84] years) with 33 unruptured pancreatic arcade aneurysms were identified. Celiac artery stenosis/occlusion coexisted in 17 (74%) patients. Five (21%) patients had multiple aneurysms. The median aneurysm size was 9.3 mm (range, 4-18 mm). Seven, 6, 6, 5, 4, 3, and 2 aneurysms were located in the gastroduodenal, dorsal pancreatic, anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal, inferior pancreaticoduodenal, posterior inferior pancreaticoduodenal, posterior superior pancreaticoduodenal, and anterior inferior pancreaticoduodenal arteries, respectively. Four (15%) and 22 (85%) aneurysms were treated with endosaccular packing alone and coil embolization with endosaccular packing and parent artery occlusion, respectively, with resulting exclusion from arterial circulation. The remaining 7 aneurysms coexisting with larger aneurysms in other peripancreatic arteries were observed without embolization because they were small and for preserving collateral blood flow to the celiac artery. The treated aneurysms did not rupture or recur during the follow-up period (median, 40 months).

CONCLUSION

Endovascular treatment is a safe and effective treatment for unruptured pancreatic arcade aneurysms.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3, non-controlled retrospective cohort study.

Presentation and management of true aneurysms of the pancreaticoduodenal arcade with concomitant celiac artery stenosis using the endovascular approach

True aneurysms of the pancreaticoduodenal artery (PDA) arcade are rare but require intervention due to the high risk of rupture. Historically, these aneurysms have been managed with open surgical methods. In this study, we describe a contemporary series of aneurysms treated using a modern approach that includes endovascular and hybrid techniques. All the patients with aneurysms of the PDA arcade in an institutional database were identified between 2008 and 2022. Patients with history of pancreatic resection were excluded. Data on demographics, presenting symptoms, imaging findings, operative approach, and outcomes were collected and reviewed. There were nine patients diagnosed with a PDA aneurysm, and all nine underwent endovascular intervention. Most were men (n = 5; 55.6%) and White (n = 7; 77.8%) and had American Society of Anesthesiologists class II or III. The median aneurysm size was 21 mm (range, 6-42 mm), and five (55.5%) were symptomatic. Of the five symptomatic cases, two presented with rupture and were treated urgently. The median time to intervention for the nonurgent cases was 30 days. All but one patient had concomitant celiac artery stenosis and two of the eight cases (25%) were due to extrinsic compression from median arcuate ligament syndrome. Both patients underwent median arcuate ligament syndrome release before endovascular intervention. Another patient required open surgical bypass before endovascular repair from the supraceliac aorta to hepatic artery using a Dacron graft to maintain hepatic perfusion. Among the eight patients with celiac axis stenosis, five (62.5%) required celiac stent placement within the same operation. Coil embolization of the aneurysm was used for all except for two patients (n = 7 of 9; 77.8%), with one patient receiving embolic plugs and another receiving an 8 × 38-mm balloon-expandable covered stent for aneurysm exclusion. The median operating room time was 134 minutes. All repairs were technically successful without any intraoperative or postoperative complications. The mean follow-up was 30 months. There was no morbidity, mortality, or unplanned secondary reinterventions within 6 months after aneurysm repair. Stent patency and aneurysm size remained stable at 2 years of follow-up. True pancreaticoduodenal artery arcade aneurysms can be safely and effectively treated using endovascular and hybrid techniques. Because many of these aneurysms have concomitant celiac artery stenosis, the use of endovascular technology allows for simultaneous treatment of both the aneurysm and the stenosis with exceptional results.

Pancreaticoduodenal Artery Aneurysm Complicated by Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome

PURPOSE

To highlight median arcuate ligament syndrome as a potential cause for celiac artery stenosis and pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm, and describe treatment options in this setting.

CASE REPORT

A 63-year-old male presented with a pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm and concomitant celiac artery stenosis that was treated with celiac artery stenting and aneurysm coiling. He subsequently developed stent fracture and celiac artery occlusion secondary to previously unrecognized median arcuate ligament syndrome causing reperfusion of the aneurysm. This was treated with open median arcuate ligament release and aorta to common hepatic artery bypass with good clinical result and stable 20-month surveillance imaging.

CONCLUSION

It is critical to recognize median arcuate ligament syndrome as a cause of celiac artery stenosis in the setting of pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm given the high risk of failure of endovascular stenting. Open aorto-hepatic artery bypass and endovascular aneurysm coiling should be the preferred approach in these patients.

Staged treatment for pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm with coeliac artery revascularisation: Case report and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Despite being rare, pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms (PDAAs) carry a risk of rupture of up to 50% and are frequently associated with coeliac artery occlusion.

METHODS

PubMed and Embase databases were searched using appropriate terms. The systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines.

RESULTS

We present the case of a 2 cm pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm pre-operative angiography demonstrated that the coeliac artery was occluded and the pancreaticoduodenal artery was providing collateral blood supply to the liver. Treatment was a staged hybrid intervention inclusive of an aorto-hepatic bypass using a 6 mm graft, followed by coil embolisation of the aneurysm. We also present a systematic review of the management of PDAAs. Two hundred and ninety-two publications were identified initially with 81 publications included in the final review. Of the 258 peripancreatic aneurysms included, 175 (61%) were associated with coeliac artery disease either occlusion or stenosis. Abdominal pain was the main presentation in 158 cases. Rupture occurred in 111 (40%) of patients with only ten (3.8%) cases being unstable on presentation. Fifty (18%) cases were detected incidentally while investigating another pathology. Over half the cases (n=141/54.6%) were treated by trans arterial embolisation (TAE) alone, while 37 cases had open surgery only. Twenty-one cases needed TAE and a coeliac stent. Seventeen cases underwent hybrid treatment (open and endovascular). Sixteen cases were treated conservatively and in 26 cases, treatment was not specified.

CONCLUSION

PDAAs are commonly associated with coeliac artery disease. The most common presentation is pain followed by rupture. The scarcity of literature about true peripancreatic artery aneurysms associated with CA occlusive disease makes it difficult to assess the natural history or the appropriate treatment. Revascularisation of hepatic artery is better done with bypass in setting of median arcuate ligament compression and occluded celiac trunk.

Transarterial embolization for ruptured pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm due to segmental arterial mediolysis combined with median arcuate ligament syndrome: a case report

A 75-year-old female with a history of Parkinson's disease treatment and hypertension presented at the emergency section with sudden onset of right abdominal pain. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed beaded irregular stenosis and dilation of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and an aneurysm in the branch of the pancreaticoduodenal artery (PDA) that communicates with the common hepatic artery and SMA. Additionally, a hematoma had formed in the retroperitoneal space, and extravasation of contrast medium from the pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm (PDAA) into the hematoma was observed. The celiac artery (CA) was compressed by the median arcuate ligament; stenosis of the CA at its origin and dilation on the distal side were observed. Based on the imaging findings, it was diagnosed that PDAA was ruptured, SMA developed segmental arterial mediolysis (SAM), and CA developed median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS). The ruptured PDAA was thought to be caused by SAM combined with MALS. Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) was performed for the ruptured PDAA. To the best of our knowledge, there have been no reports of TAE for a ruptured PDAA caused by SAM and MALS. After TAE, the PDAA did not re-rupture.

Obstructive jaundice as a rare complication of multiple pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms due to median arcuate ligament syndrome: a case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Obstructive jaundice has various causes, and one of the rarest is pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm (PDAA), which is often associated with celiac axis stenosis caused by median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS).

CASE PRESENTATION

The patient was a 77-year-old Azeri woman who presented with progressive jaundice, vague abdominal pain, and abdominal distension from 6 months ago. The intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts were dilated, the liver's margin was slightly irregular, and the echogenicity of the liver was mildly heterogeneous in the initial ultrasound exam. A huge cystic mass with peripheral calcification and compressive effect on the common bile duct (CBD) was also seen near the pancreatic head, which was connected to the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and had internal turbulent blood flow on color Doppler ultrasound. According to the computed tomography angiography (CTA) findings, the huge mass of the pancreatic head was diagnosed as a true aneurysm of the pancreaticoduodenal artery caused by MALS. Two similar smaller aneurysms were also present at the huge aneurysm's superior margin. Due to impending rupture signs in the huge aneurysm, the severe compression effect of this aneurysm on CBD, and the patient's family will surgery was chosen for the patient to resect the aneurysms, but unfortunately, the patient died on the first day after the operation due to hemorrhagic shock.

CONCLUSION

In unexpected obstructive jaundice due to a mass with vascular origin in the head of the pancreas, PDAA should be considered, and celiac trunk should be evaluated because the main reason for PDAA is celiac trunk stenosis or occlusion by atherosclerosis or MALS. The treatment method chosen (including transarterial embolization, open surgery, or combined method) depends on the patient's clinical status and radiological findings, but transarterial embolization would be safer and should be used as a first-line method.

Interventional Radiology for High-Flow Aneurysm of the Pancreaticoduodenal Arcades with Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome: Review of 14 Patients

Transarterial embolization (TAE) for high-flow pancreaticoduodenal artery (PDA) aneurysms in patients with celiac-trunk stenosis by the median arcuate ligament (MAL) has been found effective both after rupturing and to prevent rupture. The objective was to describe the TAE techniques used and their effectiveness in excluding PDA aneurysms due to MAL syndrome. This single-center retrospective study done at the Dijon-Bourgogne University Hospital included all patients treated by TAE in 2010-2022 for ruptured or unruptured high-flow PDA aneurysms caused by MAL syndrome. We identified 14 patients (7 women and 7 men; mean age, 64 years). Packing and trapping techniques were used alone or together. Occlusion was with microcoils, co-polymer, or cyanoacrylate glue, used separately or combined. Technical success was achieved in 13 (93%) patients. Clinical success was achieved in 12 (86%) patients. One major and two minor complications were recorded within the first 30 days. No complications occurred after 30 days. Follow-up ranged from 1 to 84 months. No cases of aneurysm recanalization have been recorded to date. TAE had high technical and clinical success rates in our patients with unruptured or ruptured PDA aneurysms due to MAL syndrome.

Clinical Profile, Management, and Outcome of Visceral Artery Pseudoaneurysms: 5-Year Experience in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Visceral artery pseudoaneurysms are potentially lethal lesions and tend to rupture in a high proportion of cases, thereby warranting an immediate and active intervention. We present our experience of splanchnic visceral artery pseudoaneurysms in a university hospital over a 5-year time interval with emphasis on etiology, clinical presentation, management (endovascular/surgical), and final outcome. This was a retrospective study in which we searched our image database for pseudoaneurysms of visceral arteries over a period of 5 years. The clinical and operative details were retrieved from the medical record section of our hospital. The lesions were analyzed for the vessel of origin, size, etiology, clinical features, mode of treatment, and outcome. Twenty-seven patients with pseudoaneurysms were encountered. Pancreatitis (8) was the most common cause, followed by previous surgery (7) and trauma (6). Fifteen were managed by the interventional radiology (IR) team, 6 by surgery, and in 6 no intervention was done. Technical and clinical success was achieved in all patients in the IR group with few minor complications. Surgery and no intervention carry a high mortality in such a setting (66 and 50%, respectively). Visceral pseudoaneurysms are potentially fatal lesions, commonly encountered after trauma, pancreatitis, surgeries, and interventional procedures. These lesions are easily salvageable by minimally invasive interventional techniques (endovascular embolotherapy), and surgeries carry a lot of morbidity and mortality in such cases and a prolonged hospital stay.

Median arcuate ligament syndrome: a rare cause of abdominal pain

MALS, also called celiac artery compression syndrome, celiac axis syndrome, or Dunbar syndrome, is a rare entity caused by progressive stenosis of the celiac trunk secondary to extrinsic compression of the fibers of the median arcuate ligament. The prevalence is unknown, but it is estimated that it is a casual finding in up to a third of autopsies2,3, being more prevalent in women between 30 and 50 years of age4. Symptoms and signs include postprandial abdominal pain, exercise-induced pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss3. However, most cases are asymptomatic. The case that we present was a 56-year-old man, with a history of dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and chronic ischemic heart disease. He was a former smoker. He reported a history of recurrent abdominal pain, especially postprandial.

Treatment strategies for unruptured pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms associated with celiac artery occlusion

Celiac artery (CA) occlusion or stenosis is identified in up to almost half of all patients undergoing abdominal angiography, and the resulting increased collateral blood flow from the superior mesenteric artery to the pancreaticoduodenal artery (PDA) may cause PDA aneurysms (PDAAs). PDAAs are rare but could be fatal if they rupture. However, treatment of the PDAA could block this important collateral blood flow pathway, leading to ischemic organ damage. Treatment of such aneurysms is therefore difficult, especially in patients with multiple PDAAs. Successful treatment of PDAAs requires establishing blood flow in the CA region and selecting which aneurysm(s) to treat. We present four patients who underwent surgery for unruptured PDAAs caused by CA obstruction. Blood flow in the CA region was established by bypassing the splenic artery and by anastomosing it either directly to the left renal artery (n = 1) or to the abdominal aorta using a graft (saphenous vein: n = 1; artificial vessel: n = 2). Three patients had multiple PDAAs: all PDAAs were treated in one patient with PDAAs of similar size and shape, but only the largest PDAA with the highest risk of rupture was treated in the other two patients to simplify the procedure. The median observation period was 19.5 months (range: 11-28 months), and all patients were alive without recurrence at the time of writing. Surgical treatment including splenic artery bypass may thus be a viable option for treating patients with unruptured PDAAs.

A Large Series of True Pancreaticoduodenal Artery Aneurysms

INTRODUCTION

True pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms (PDAA) are rare and prior reports often fail to distinguish true aneurysms from pseudoaneuryms. We sought to characterize all patients who presented to our health-system from 2004-2019 with true PDAA, with a focus on risk factors, interventions, and patient outcomes.

METHODS

Patients were identified by querying a single health-system PACS database for radiographic reports noting a PDAA. Retrospective chart review was performed on all identified patients. Patients with pseudoaneurysm, identified as those with a history of pancreatitis, abdominal malignancy, hepatopancreaticobiliary surgery, or abdominal trauma, were excluded. Continuous variables were compared using t-tests, and categorical variables were compared using Fisher's exact tests.

RESULTS

A total of 59 true PDAA were identified. Forty aneurysms (68%) were intact (iPDAA) and 19 (32%) were ruptured (rPDAA) at presentation. Mean size of ruptured PDAA was 16.4 mm (median size 14.0 mm; range 10 - 42 mm) and mean size of intact PDAA was 19.4 mm (median size 17.5mm; range 8 - 88 mm), this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.95). Significant celiac disease (occlusion or >70% stenosis) was noted in 39 aneurysms (66%). Those with rupture were less likely to have significant celiac disease (42% vs 78%, P=0.017), and less likely to have aneurysmal wall calcifications (6% vs 53%, P=0.002). Thirty-seven patients underwent intervention (63%); with eight (22%) undergoing concomitant hepatic revascularization (2 stents and 6 bypasses) due to the presence of celiac disease. Eighteen patients with occluded celiac arteries underwent aneurysm intervention; of those, 11 were performed without hepatic revascularization (61.1%). Those with rPDAA experienced an aneurysm related mortality of 10.5% while those with iPDAA experienced a rate of 5.6%. One patient with celiac occlusion and PDA rupture who did not undergo hepatic artery bypass expired postoperatively from hepatic ischemia. Ruptured PDAA showed a trend towards increased need for aneurysm-related endovascular or open reintervention, but this was not statistically significant (47% vs 28%, P=0.13).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings support previous reports that the rupture risk of PDAA is independent of size, their development is often associated with significant celiac stenosis or occlusion, and rupture risk appears decreased in patients with concomitant celiac disease or aneurysm wall calcifications. Endovascular intervention is the preferred initial treatment for both intact and ruptured PDAAs, but reintervention rates are high in both groups. The role for hepatic revascularization remains uncertain, but it does not appear to be mandatory in all patients with complete celiac occlusion who undergo PDAA interventions.

Structural Remodeling of the Extracellular Matrix in Arteriogenesis: A Review

Lower extremity arterial occlusive disease (AOD) results in significant morbidity and mortality for the population, with up to 10% of patients ultimately requiring amputation. An alternative method for non-surgical revascularization which is yet to be fully understood is the optimization of the body's own natural collateral arterial network in a process known as arteriogenesis. Under conditions of conductance vessel stenosis or occlusion resulting in increased flow, shear forces, and pressure gradients within collaterals, positive remodeling occurs to increase the diameter and capacity of these vessels. The creation of a distal arteriovenous fistula (AVF) will drive increased arteriogenesis as compared to collateral formation with the occlusion of a conductance vessel alone by further increasing flow through these arterioles, demonstrating the capacity for arteriogenesis to form larger, more efficient collaterals beyond what is spontaneously achieved after arterial occlusion. Arteries rely on an extracellular matrix (ECM) composed of elastic fibers and collagens that provide stability under hemodynamic stress, and ECM remodeling is necessary to allow for increased diameter and flow conductance in mature arterial structures. When positive remodeling occurs, digestion of lamella and the internal elastic lamina (IEL) by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and other elastases results in the rearrangement and thinning of elastic structures and may be replaced with disordered elastin synthesis without recovery of elastic function. This results in transmission of wall strain to collagen and potential for aneurysmal degeneration along collateral networks, as is seen in the pancreaticoduodenal artery (PDA) after celiac occlusion and inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) with concurrent celiac and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusions. Further understanding into the development of collaterals is required to both better understand aneurysmal degeneration and optimize collateral formation in AOD.

Duodenal stenosis after transcatheter arterial embolization for rupture of an inferior pancreaticoduodenal aneurysm

A 64-year-old man presented with epigastric pain and underwent contrast-enhanced computed tomography. Ruptured aneurysm of the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery was diagnosed. TAE was successfully accomplished using coils, but vomiting appeared 9 days later. Duodenal stenosis was diagnosed from contrast-enhanced computed tomography and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and was attributed to edematous changes in the duodenum. Conservative management led to successful recovery and discharge.

Management of Pancreaticoduodenal Artery Aneurysms Based on a Single-Institution Experience

OBJECTIVES

Pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms (PDAAs) are rare and have a high propensity for rupture. Historically, management of PDAAs included surgical reconstruction but has evolved with advances in endovascular therapy. We report our experience with management of PDAAs during the last 30 years.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our prospectively maintained registry between January 1, 1992 - March 30, 2020.

RESULTS

We identified 8 patients with PDAAs: 4 with associated celiac artery occlusive disease and 4 without identifiable etiologies. Four patients were treated with surgical resection of the PDAAs: 2 intact aneurysms underwent concomitant revascularization (superior mesenteric artery-to-hepatic artery Dacron bypass; supra celiac aorta-to-hepatic artery Dacron bypass) and 2 (1 intact, 1 rupture) underwent ligation alone. Four patients were treated with coil embolization of the PDAA: 2 with concomitant stent-graft exclusion of the aneurysm (1 non-rupture, 1 rupture) and 2 without adjunctive measures (intact). There were no deaths nor any significant procedure-related morbidity.

CONCLUSION

Our large single-center experience shows that PDAAs can be successfully treated by open or endovascular intervention with selective revascularization.

Outcomes After Open and Endovascular Repair of Non-Ruptured True Pancreaticoduodenal and Gastroduodenal Artery Aneurysms Associated with Coeliac Artery Compression: A Multicentre Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE

True aneurysms of the peri-pancreatic arcade (PDAA) have been attributed to increased collateral flow related to coeliac axis (CA) occlusion by a median arcuate ligament (MAL). Although PDAA exclusion is currently recommended, simultaneous CA release and the technique to be used are debated. The aim of this retrospective multicentre study was to compare the results of open surgical repair of true non-ruptured PDAA with release or CA bypass (group A) vs. coil embolisation of PDAA and CA stenting or laparoscopic release (group B).

METHODS

From January 1994 to February 2019, 57 consecutive patients (group A: 31 patients; group B: 26 patients), including 35 (61%) men (mean age 56 ± 11 years), were treated at three centres. Twenty-six patients (46%) presented with non-specific abdominal pain: 15 (48%) in group A and 11 (42%) in group B (p = .80).

RESULTS

No patient died during the post-operative period. At 30 days, all PDAAs following open repair and embolisation had been treated successfully. In group A, all CAs treated by MAL release or bypass were patent. In group B, 2/12 CA stentings failed at < 48 hours, and all MAL released by laparoscopy were successful. Median length of hospital stay was significantly greater in group A than in group B (5 vs. 3 days; p = .001). In group A, all PDAAs remained excluded. In group B, three PDAA recanalisations following embolisation were treated successfully (two redo embolisations and one open surgical resection). At six years, Kaplan-Meier estimates of freedom for PDAA recanalisation were 100% in group A, and 88% ± 6% in group B (p = .082). No PDAA ruptured during follow up. In group A, all 37 CAs treated by MAL release were patent, and one aortohepatic bypass occluded. In group B, five CAs occluded: four after stenting and the other after laparoscopic MAL release with two redo stenting and three aortohepatic bypasses. Estimates of freedom from CA restenosis/occlusion were 95% ± 3% for MAL release or visceral bypass, and 60% ± 9% for CA stenting (p = .001). Two late restenoses following CA stenting were associated with PDAA recanalisation.

CONCLUSION

Current data suggest that open and endovascular treatment of PDAA can be performed with excellent post-operative results in both groups. However, PDAA embolisation was associated with few midterm recanalisations and CA stenting with a significant number of early and midterm failures.

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta for ruptured pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta is useful as a troubleshooting response to hemorrhage and a temporary method for maintaining patient hemodynamics.

Multiple large pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms due to celiac artery occlusion: Combination of the aorto-hepatic bypass and coil embolization with a dual approach through both the superior mesenteric artery and bypass

Pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm can occur from occlusion or stenosis of the celiac artery due to arteriosclerosis or median arcuate ligament compression. The risk of rupture of the aneurysm is independent of the aneurysmal diameter. A 78-year-old woman presented with multiple large aneurysms of the anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal artery. To preserve arterial flow to the liver, bypass grafting from the supra-celiac aorta to the common hepatic artery was performed at first. Coil embolization was successfully performed 10 days later with a dual approach through both the superior mesenteric artery and bypass. It was considered that the combination of the aorto-hepatic bypass and coil embolization was effective for the pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms due to celiac artery occlusion.

Chronic mesenteric ischemia: Clinical practice guidelines from the Society for Vascular Surgery

BACKGROUND

Chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI) results from the inability to achieve adequate postprandial intestinal blood flow, usually from atherosclerotic occlusive disease at the origins of the mesenteric vessels. Patients typically present with postprandial pain, food fear, and weight loss, although they can present with acute mesenteric ischemia and bowel infarction. The diagnosis requires a combination of the appropriate clinical symptoms and significant mesenteric artery occlusive disease, although it is often delayed given the spectrum of gastrointestinal disorders associated with abdominal pain and weight loss. The treatment goals include relieving the presenting symptoms, preventing progression to acute mesenteric ischemia, and improving overall quality of life. These practice guidelines were developed to provide the best possible evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with CMI from atherosclerosis.

METHODS

The Society for Vascular Surgery established a committee composed of vascular surgeons and individuals experienced with evidence-based reviews. The committee focused on six specific areas, including the diagnostic evaluation, indications for treatment, choice of treatment, perioperative evaluation, endovascular/open revascularization, and surveillance/remediation. A formal systematic review was performed by the evidence team to identify the optimal technique for revascularization. Specific practice recommendations were developed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system based on review of literature, the strength of the data, and consensus.

RESULTS

Patients with symptoms consistent with CMI should undergo an expedited workup, including a computed tomography arteriogram, to exclude other potential causes. The diagnosis is supported by significant arterial occlusive disease in the mesenteric vessels, particularly the superior mesenteric artery. Treatment requires revascularization with the primary target being the superior mesenteric artery. Endovascular revascularization with a balloon-expandable covered intraluminal stent is the recommended initial treatment with open repair reserved for select younger patients and those who are not endovascular candidates. Long-term follow-up and surveillance are recommended after revascularization and for asymptomatic patients with severe mesenteric occlusive disease. Patient with recurrent symptoms after revascularization owing to recurrent stenoses should be treated with an endovascular-first approach, similar to the de novo lesion.

CONCLUSIONS

These practice guidelines were developed based on the best available evidence. They should help to optimize the care of patients with CMI. Multiple areas for future research were identified.

Surgical Treatment of True Superior Mesenteric Artery Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Superior mesenteric artery aneurysms (SMAAs) are a rare clinical problem that can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The optimal surgical approach for both mycotic and degenerative SMAAs remains poorly defined. The study was designed to review our institutional experience and develop a treatment algorithm.

METHODS

A single-institution, retrospective review was performed to document presentation, treatment, and outcomes of patients undergoing surgical repair of SMAAs from 2003 to 2020. The primary end-point was 30-day mortality, and secondary end-points included complications, patency, freedom from reinfection, freedom from reintervention, and survival.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients (mean age: 46 ± 16 yrs; 50% male; mean diameter 2.4 ± 2.0 cm) underwent treatment of mycotic (50%) or degenerative (50%) SMAAs. Abdominal pain (66%) was the most common presenting symptom, and the diagnosis was confirmed with CT arteriography. Endocarditis secondary to intravenous drug abuse was responsible for most (88%) of the mycotic SMAAs, with a majority (66%) having positive cultures and Streptococcus being the most common organism. The majority (61%) of patients underwent urgent or emergent repair with aneurysmectomy and interposition saphenous vein bypass being the most common treatment of mycotic SMAAs while aneurysmectomy and prosthetic bypass were used most frequently for degenerative aneurysms. The operative mortality rate was 6% with a major complication rate of 17% (n = 3 patients: respiratory failure/reintubation-1, pulmonary embolism-1, necrotizing pancreatitis/graft disruption and death-1). The single death occurred in a patient with a degenerative aneurysm that developed postoperative pancreatitis and multiple organ dysfunction. The mean clinical follow-up time was 25 ± 48 (95% CI 1-48) months. The estimated primary patency, freedom from reinfection, and freedom from reintervention were 93 ± 7 %, 94 ± 5%, and 94 ± 5%, respectively, at 1 year. The overall mean survival was 55 ± 51 (95% CI 30-80) months with an estimated survival at 3 years of 77 ± 10%.

CONCLUSIONS

SMAAs associated with both degenerative and mycotic etiologies can be treated using a variety of surgical approaches with acceptable morbidity and mortality. Mycotic SMAAs should likely be repaired, regardless of size, while the indications for asymptomatic, degenerative aneurysms remain to be defined by further natural history studies.

Dual endovascular repair (coils and stent) of a true aneurysm of the gastroduodenal artery

We report a case of an asymptomatic gastroduodenal artery aneurysm diagnosed in a 39 year-old woman. An abdominal ultrasound study showed an aneurysmal dilatation of the gastroduodenal artery with 2 x 2 cm diameter. To confirm this finding, she then underwent a computed tomography scan of the abdomen and pelvis that showed a saccular aneurysm of the gastroduodenal artery. A dual endovascular approach was used to exclude the aneurysm by stent-assisted coil embolization. Complete exclusion of the aneurysm sac was confirmed on final angiography. She was discharged from the hospital on postoperative day 1.

Transarterial Embolization With Complementary Surgical Ligation of Gastroduodenal Artery for Ruptured Pancreaticoduodenal Artery Aneurysm

The association between pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm (PDAA) and local hemodynamic changes in pancreaticoduodenal arcades is well established. However, there are few case reports of PDAA associated with acute aortic dissection. In this article, we outline and discuss the case of a 61-year-old man diagnosed with a type A acute aortic dissection who underwent emergency surgery and developed sudden-onset severe abdominal pain and shock 10 days later. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed a ruptured PDAA with feeding vessels from the gastroduodenal and superior mesenteric arteries, with evidence that the celiac artery was diverged from a false lumen. Transarterial embolization via the superior mesenteric artery alone was not expected to achieve hemostasis, so we performed a hybrid procedure involving transarterial embolization cannulated from superior mesenteric artery with complementary surgical ligation of the gastroduodenal artery. The postoperative course was uneventful, and follow-up contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed no persistence of the aneurysm 8 days after the second operation. This case proposed that visceral arterial malperfusion due to acute aortic dissection can cause PDAA in the early postoperative period. Although previous reports suggest that endovascular treatment is preferable, it may not always be feasible. Since ruptured PDAAs are often not detected during surgery, surgical treatment can be overly invasive. Whereas, transarterial embolization with complementary clamping or ligation of the gastroduodenal artery for ruptured PDAA is less invasive and can control hemorrhage, especially when cannulation to the celiac artery is impossible. Notably, the technique did not cause organ ischemia, presumably because the small collateral vessels of the pancreaticoduodenal arcades permitted sufficient blood flow. If endovascular treatment is unable to achieve rapid hemostasis, this technique may be a useful option for ruptured PDAA.

Ruptured pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm presenting with duodenal obstruction

Visceral aneurysms of the pancreaticoduodenal arcades are rare. Although these aneurysms are often asymptomatic and identified incidentally on cross-sectional imaging, aneurysm rupture presents significant morbidity. Ruptured pancreaticoduodenal arcade aneurysms typically present with abdominal pain, hemorrhagic shock, or gastrointestinal bleeding. A 72-year-old male presented with nausea and vomiting and was found to have imaging evidence of duodenal obstruction. This was due to a duodenal intramural hematoma caused by a ruptured submucosal aneurysm supplied by a branch of the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery in the presence of median arcuate ligament compression of the celiac artery. This was subsequently treated with endovascular embolization with clinical improvement in duodenal obstruction. This case illustrates an unusual presentation of a ruptured pancreaticoduodenal arcade aneurysm.

Treatment Algorithm of Peripancreatic Arteries Aneurysm Coexisting with Coeliac Artery Lesion: Single Institution Experience

Introduction

True aneurysms of peripancreatic arterial arcades (PAAAs) coexisting with celiac axis lesion are often asymptomatic. However, they may rupture regardless of their size and cause life-threatening hypovolemia. No treatment guidelines exist to date. We present a series of 21 patients and our management algorithm.

Material and Methods

For ruptured aneurysms we preformed endovascular embolization. Further treatment was dependent on patient's condition and control studies. In case of unruptured aneurysms, we assessed collateral circulation between superior mesenteric artery and celiac axis in angio-CT. If there was a pathway free from aneurysms, endovascular approach was chosen. Otherwise, surgical or combined treatment was favored.

Results

Endovascular treatment was performed in 14 patients with no complications. Follow-up studies revealed incomplete occlusion of the aneurysms in two cases. Surgical or combined treatment was performed in 7 patients with three serious perioperative complications. They were managed conservatively in two cases and surgically in one. Follow-up studies showed aneurismal dilatation and stenosis of a renohepatic by-pass in one case.

Conclusion

We present our management algorithm of PAAAs. Our results support the leading role of endovascular treatment. We present its limitations favoring surgical or combined treatment. All patients should be carefully followed.

Optimal Treatment for Ruptured Pancreaticoduodenal Artery Aneurysm Caused by Celiac Artery Obstruction Due to Celiac Artery Dissection

A pancreaticoduodenal artery (PDA) aneurysm develops due to increased flow through the pancreaticoduodenal arcade in the setting of celiac or superior mesenteric artery occlusion. Additionally, there is no evidence on the computed tomography scan or angiography images that the dissection process extends to the PDA arcade. Moreover, the optimal treatment protocols for PDA aneurysms with celiac artery obstruction and for celiac artery dissection are controversial. We report 2 cases of ruptured PDA aneurysms caused by celiac artery obstruction due to celiac artery dissection in which the aneurysm was excluded, but celiac artery revascularization was not performed successfully. Our cases indicate that endovascular management for ruptured PDA aneurysms and conservative management for celiac artery obstruction due to celiac artery dissection are feasible as first-line treatment in such cases.

Pseudoaneurysm of the gastroduodenal artery: an unusual cause for hyperamylasaemia

A 79-year-old man was admitted electively for investigation of weight loss. While he was an inpatient, he developed severe epigastric pain and an initial blood test revealed an acutely raised amylase (>2000) and deranged liver function tests. A contrast CT angiography showed a large haematoma adjacent to the duodenum, spreading in the retroperitoneal space, arising from a 2 cm bleeding pseudoaneurysm in the region of the gastroduodenal artery. Due to his underlying comorbidities, he was deemed unfit for surgical repair and he had coil embolisation with successful haemostasis. The gastroduodenal artery aneurysms are rare and constitute 1.5% of all visceral artery aneurysms. They can be an incidental finding or they can present with haemorrhagic shock, abdominal pain and rarely with obstructive jaundice or hyperamylasaemia. The diagnosis is usually made with an angiography. Variable treatment options are available depending on the patient's fitness and haemodynamic stability.

Hypervascular pancreatic "lesions": a pattern-based approach to differentiation

Hypervascular pancreatic lesions/masses can arise due to a variety of causes, both benign and malignant, leading to a wide differential diagnosis. Accurate differentiation of these lesions into appropriate diagnoses can be challenging; however, this is important for directing clinical management. This manuscript provides a multimodality imaging review of hypervascular pancreatic lesion, with emphasis on an imaging-based algorithmic approach for differentiation of these lesions, which may serve as a decision support tool when encountering these uncommon lesions. Additionally, we stratify these lesions into three categories based on malignant potential, to help guide clinical management.