Visceral Artery Aneurysms: Decision Making and Treatment Options in the New Era of Minimally Invasive and Endovascular Surgery

Hepatic artery aneurysm with no proximal neck and proper hepatic artery bifurcation involvement

We report the case of a patient with a saccular aneurysm of the hepatic artery with maximum diameter of 2.8 cm, no proximal neck, and involving the bifurcation of the proper hepatic artery, constituting a hostile anatomy for endovascular treatment, which would usually be the first choice for such cases. We performed open surgical treatment with resection and reconstruction using an autologous graft (internal saphenous vein). We illustrate the surgical technique used for adequate vascular exposure of the celiac trunk and hepatic hilum (which is often an area little explored by vascular surgeons) and of structures anatomically close to the hepatic artery. We also illustrate the anastomosis with telescoping technique. We demonstrate the need for vascular surgeons to master the anatomy and classical surgical technique for visceral branches, even in the era of minimally invasive procedures.

Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Self-Expandable vs. Balloon-Expandable Stent Grafts in Visceral Artery Aneurysm Management

PURPOSE

This study assesses the efficacy and safety of self-expandable (SE) versus balloon-expandable (BE) stent grafts for managing visceral artery aneurysms (VAAs), focusing on procedural success and complication rates.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of VAA patients treated at our institution from April 2006 to September 2021. The study reviewed patient demographics, aneurysm characteristics, treatment details, and outcomes, including endoleaks.

RESULTS

Among the 23 patients analyzed, splenic artery aneurysms represented 44% of cases. Fifteen patients were treated with balloon-expandable stent grafts (BE SGs), and eight patients were treated with self-expandable stent grafts (SE SGs). For saccular aneurysms, the average neck size was 10.10 ± 8.70 mm in the BE group versus 18.50 ± 3.40 mm in the SE group (p = 0.23), with an average sac size of 20.10 ± 18.9 mm in the BE group versus 15.60 ± 12.7 mm in the SE group (p = 0.16). The average sac-to-neck ratio was 1.69 ± 2.23 in the BE group versus 1.38 ± 0.33 in the SE group (p = 0.63). The BE group exhibited a significantly higher endoleak rate (60%) compared to the SE group (12.5%; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

While further investigation is needed to fully assess the outcomes of stent graft treatment for VAAs, initial data show a significantly higher endoleak rate with BE SGs compared to SE SGs. The SE SGs may offer better outcomes due to their superior ability to conform to tortuous and mobile visceral arteries.

Laparoscopic Splenectomy for Splenic Artery Aneurysms Associated With Infective Endocarditis: A Case Report

Splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs) are a relatively uncommon but potentially life-threatening disease. In recent years, although there have been an increasing number of reports of interventional radiology (IVR) treatment for SAAs, there are still many cases in which surgical intervention is required. In particular, SAAs associated with infective endocarditis (SAAs-IE) are rare, and the treatment strategies and perspectives for SAAs-IE remain controversial. Herein, we report a successful case of laparoscopic splenectomy for SAAs-IE with a literature review.

The Natural History of Splenic Artery Aneurysms: Factors That Predict Aneurysm Growth

PURPOSE

To examine the natural history of splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs) at a single institution and assess the effect of patient factors and aneurysm characteristics on aneurysm growth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This single-center retrospective study included patients with SAAs who underwent serial imaging over 30 years (1990-2020). Data regarding patient demographics and aneurysm characteristics were collected. The variables contributing to aneurysm growth were assessed using nonparametric tests for continuous variables and chi-square test for categorical variables. Multivariable linear regression was performed using aneurysm growth rate as a continuous dependent variable.

RESULTS

A total of 132 patients were included in this study. The median maximum diameter of the SAAs was 15.8 mm (range, 4.0-50.0 mm). Growth over time was observed in 39% of the aneurysms, whereas the remaining 61% were stable in size. Of aneurysms that increased in size, the median aneurysm growth rate was 0.60 mm/y (range, 0.03-5.00 mm/y). Maximum aneurysm diameter of >2 cm and the presence of >50% mural thrombus were significant positive predictors for aneurysm growth (P = .020 and P = .022, respectively). Greater than 50% rim calcification was a significant negative predictor for aneurysm growth (P = .009) in multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

A larger baseline SAA size, presence of mural thrombus, and lack of rim calcification are associated with increased aneurysm growth rate.

Endovascular Stent-Graft Repair of True and False Aneurysms of the Splenic Artery

OBJECTIVE

In treatment of aneurysms (SAAs) and pseudoaneurysms (SAPs) of the splenic artery, endovascular coil embolization is the approach most commonly used as it is minimally invasive and safe. However, it carries a significant rate of primary failure (up to 30%) and might be complicated by splenic infarction. The use of stent grafts might represent a valuable alternative when specific anatomical criteria are respected. We report a comprehensive review on technical and clinical outcomes achieved in this setting. Methods: We performed a comprehensive review of the literature through the MedLine and Cochrane databases (from January 2000 to December 2023) on reported cases of stenting for SAAs and SAPs. Outcomes of interest were clinical and technical success and related complications. The durability of the procedure in the long-term was also investigated. Results: Eighteen papers were included in the analysis, totalling 41 patients (n = 20 male 48.8%, mean age 55.5, range 32-82 years; n = 31, 75.6% SAAs). Mean aneurysm diameter in non-ruptured cases was 35 mm (range 20-67 mm), and most lesions were detected at the proximal third of the splenic artery. Stent grafting was performed in an emergent setting in n = 10 (24.3%) cases, achieving immediate clinical and technical success rate in 90.2% (n = 37) of patients regardless of the type of stent-graft used. There were no procedure-related deaths, but one patient died in-hospital from septic shock and n = 2 (4.9%) patients experienced splenic infarction. At the last available follow-up, the complete exclusion of the aneurysm was confirmed in 87.8% of cases (n = 36/41), while no cases of aneurysm growing nor endoleak were reported. None of the patients required re-intervention during follow-up. Conclusions: When specific anatomical criteria are respected, endovascular repair of SAAs and SAAPs using stent grafts appears to be safe and effective, and seems to display a potential advantage in respect to simple coil embolization, preserving the patient from the risk of end-organ ischemia.

Guidelines on the diagnosis, treatment and management of visceral and renal arteries aneurysms: a joint assessment by the Italian Societies of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery (SICVE) and Medical and Interventional Radiology (SIRM)

The objective of these Guidelines is to provide recommendations for the classification, indication, treatment and management of patients suffering from aneurysmal pathology of the visceral and renal arteries. The methodology applied was the GRADE-SIGN version, and followed the instructions of the AGREE quality of reporting checklist. Clinical questions, structured according to the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome) model, were formulated, and systematic literature reviews were carried out according to them. Selected articles were evaluated through specific methodological checklists. Considered Judgments were compiled for each clinical question in which the characteristics of the body of available evidence were evaluated in order to establish recommendations. Overall, 79 clinical practice recommendations were proposed. Indications for treatment and therapeutic options were discussed for each arterial district, as well as follow-up and medical management, in both candidate patients for conservative therapy and patients who underwent treatment. The recommendations provided by these guidelines simplify and improve decision-making processes and diagnostic-therapeutic pathways of patients with visceral and renal arteries aneurysms. Their widespread use is recommended.

Selection of endovascular treatment strategies and analysis of the efficacy of different locations and types of splenic artery aneurysms

PURPOSE

To analyze the selection of endovascular treatment strategies and the efficacy of various locations and types of splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs).

METHODS

Sixty-three cases of patients diagnosed with SAA from January 2016 to October 2021 were collected, and their clinical data and follow-up results were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among the 63 patients, 55 had true SAAs, and 8 had false SAAs. The average diameter of the true SAAs was 2.0 ± 0.8 cm. There were 10 cases of intra-aneurysm embolization, 24 cases of intra-aneurysm and aneurysm-bearing artery embolization, 10 cases of bare stent-assisted coil embolization, and 11 cases of stent grafts. The false SAAs had an average diameter of 2.3 ± 1.1 cm. Aneurysm-bearing artery embolization was applied in 5 cases, and stent grafts were applied in 3 cases. The incidence of complications after embolization of the aneurysm-bearing artery was higher (P < 0.01). Postembolization syndrome occurred in 10 patients; 7 patients developed splenic infarction to varying degrees, 1 patient had mildly elevated blood amylase, and 1 patient developed splenic necrosis with abscess formation, all of which improved after active treatment. The average length of hospital stay was 5.5 ± 3.2 days. The average follow-up time was 17.2 ± 16.1 months, and the aneurysm cavity of all patients was completely thrombotic.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular treatments of SAAs are safe and effective. For various locations and types of SAAs, adequate selection of treatment is necessary. Stent grafts are recommended for their safety, economy, practicality, and preservation of the physiological functions of the human body.

Management of Coeliac and Hepatic Artery Aneurysms: An Experience of 84 Cases

OBJECTIVE

To report outcomes following open or endovascular treatment of true hepatic and coeliac artery aneurysms at a single referral centre.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients treated for true hepatic and coeliac artery aneurysms between May 2002 and December 2021. Outcome measures included complications, graft patency, and survival rate.

RESULTS

Overall, 84 patients were included with a median age of 63 years (interquartile range 55, 79). The majority (76%) of the patients were men. Frequent comorbidities included a history of tobacco (69%), hypertension (65%), hyperlipidaemia (32%), and diabetes (15%). Multiple synchronous aneurysms were detected in 22 patients (26%). There were 33 (39%) symptomatic aneurysms (abdominal pain without rupture [n = 18], rupture [n = 10], and sepsis [n = 5]). Seventeen patients (20%) had mycotic aetiology. Fifty patients (60%) underwent endovascular treatment with either covered stent placement (n = 29) or coil embolisation (n = 21), and 34 patients (40%) were treated with open surgery using allogenic iliac artery (n = 15), autologous saphenous vein (n = 15), GoreTex graft (n = 2), or ligation (n = 2). The complication rate was 32% in the open group and 18% in the endovascular group (p = .048). The overall 90 day post-operative mortality rate was 1.2%, five year primary patency was 90.0%, five year survival rate was 81.2%, and mean follow up was 6.9 ± 4.2 years.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular treatment is the preferred approach whenever technically possible. Despite higher post-operative morbidity, an open approach with vascular reconstruction using autologous or allogenic vascular grafts yields acceptable long term results.

3D printing in the endovascular treatment of visceral artery aneurysms

Visceral artery aneurysms (VAAs) are vascular pathologies that are difficult to treat. The variable geometry of the vessels and the location of aneurysms render difficult their evaluation in radiological imaging studies. Less invasive endovascular procedures are increasingly used in common practice. Our aim was to test the feasibility of using 3D printing technology in the preparation of preoperative spatial models of visceral artery aneurysms and their impact on interventional treatment. In our observational study, we examined a group of patients with true aneurysms of the visceral arteries who were followed and who underwent endovascular procedures with the use of 3D prints for better imaging of vascular lesions. We analyzed the fused filament fabrication method of 3D printing and printable materials in the preparation of spatial vascular models. We confirmed that more accurate visualization and analysis of vascular anatomy could assist operators in attempting minimally invasive treatment with good results. Extending imaging studies using 3D printing models that allow for the assessment of the position, morphology and geometry of the aneurysm sac, particularly of vessel branches, could encourage surgeons to perform endovascular procedures.

Spontaneous Celiac Artery Pseudoaneurysm in a Patient With Viral Myocarditis: Coincidence or Consequence?

Spontaneous pseudoaneurysm formation in the celiac artery is a very infrequent occurrence in the absence of trauma or descending aortic dissection. If it continues to progress, it can lead to visceral organ infarction or life-threatening hemoperitoneum. Management is conservative in select cases; however, most patients require an endovascular or surgical approach. The definitive etiology of spontaneous celiac artery pseudoaneurysm remains unclear. We present an intriguing case of a 67-year-old female who presented to the hospital with sudden chest pain preceded by viral prodromal symptoms. She was discharged as a case of viral myocarditis and was re-admitted the same day with acute abdominal pain. Computed tomography with intravenous contrast showed an enlarging eight-millimeter celiac artery pseudoaneurysm managed with endovascular coil embolization. This case report demonstrates spontaneous celiac artery pseudoaneurysm workup and management. We are also investigating whether a unifying diagnosis exists to explain both viral myocarditis and celiac artery pseudoaneurysm or if both conditions are sporadic occurrences.

Open surgical repair of a giant common hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm that perforated into the duodenum and common bile duct

This is a case of 60-year-old male patient with a history of heavy alcohol consumption and liver dysfunction who presented with a giant hepatic aneurysm. The incidence of giant hepatic aneurysms exceeding 10 cm in diameter is rare, particularly in the context of pseudoaneurysms. Furthermore, simultaneous perforation into the bile duct and duodenum is highly unusual. This case report elucidates the successful surgical management of a large pseudoaneurysm of the common hepatic artery that concurrently perforated the bile duct and duodenum, without any complications or deterioration of liver function.

Case report: Immediate revascularization for symptomatic hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm after orthotopic liver transplantation? A case series and literature review

Introduction

Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm (HAPA), a rare vascular complication that can develop after liver transplantation, is associated with a high mortality rate and graft loss. To salvage the liver graft, immediate revascularization, either through surgical or endovascular intervention, is required. However, currently there is no consensus on the optimal strategy. Here, we report three cases of liver transplant recipients diagnosed with HAPA and treated with immediate revascularization. In addition, we present an overview of HAPA cases described in the literature and make recommendations on how to treat this rare complication.

Methods

All adults transplanted in our center between 2005 and 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Literature search was done in PubMed for original studies between 1980 and 2021 reporting early hepatic artery (pseudo) aneurysm after liver transplantation requiring either surgical or endovascular intervention.

Results

From a total of 1,172, 3 liver transplant patients were identified with a symptomatic HAPA and treated with immediate revascularization. HAPA occurred 73, 27, and 8 days after liver transplantation and was treated with immediate revascularization (two surgical and one endovascular intervention). Literature review identified 127 cases of HAPA. HAPA was managed with endovascular therapy in 20 cases and by surgical intervention in 89 cases. Overall reported mortality rate was 39.6%, whereas overall graft survival was 45.2%.

Conclusion

Immediate surgical or radiological interventional excision and prompt revascularization to salvage liver grafts is feasible but still associated with a high mortality.

Treatment of celiac artery rupture with a hybrid procedure involving aortic stent grafting and open surgery in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1

Neurofibromatosis type 1 is associated with vascular fragility, and vascular disease is the second leading cause of death in these patients. A 42-year-old woman with neurofibromatosis type 1 was transferred to our hospital owing to shock. A computed tomography scan revealed a ruptured celiac artery aneurysm, which had expanded from 14 to 26 mm in 1 day. The survival rate of patients with celiac artery rupture is extremely low, and there is no consensus on treatment. Here, we successfully performed a hybrid procedure with emergent implantation of aortic stent grafts for life-saving treatment and subsequent laparotomy for complete hemostasis.

Assessing the aneurysm occlusion efficacy of a shear-thinning biomaterial in a 3D-printed model

Metallic coil embolization is a common method for the endovascular treatment of visceral artery aneurysms (VAA) and visceral artery pseudoaneurysms (VAPA); however, this treatment is suboptimal due to the high cost of coils, incomplete volume occlusion, poor reendothelialization, aneurysm puncture, and coil migration. Several alternative treatment strategies are available, including stent flow diverters, glue embolics, gelfoam slurries, and vascular mesh plugs-each of which have their own disadvantages. Here, we investigated the in vitro capability of a shear-thinning biomaterial (STB), a nanocomposite hydrogel composed of gelatin and silicate nanoplatelets, for the minimally-invasive occlusion of simple necked aneurysm models. We demonstrated the injectability of STB through various clinical catheters, engineered an in vitro testing apparatus to independently manipulate aneurysm neck diameter, fluid flow rate, and flow waveform, and tested the stability of STB within the models under various conditions. Our experiments show that STB is able to withstand at least 1.89 Pa of wall shear stress, as estimated by computational fluid dynamics. STB is also able to withstand up to 10 mL s-1 pulsatile flow with a waveform mimicking blood flow in the human femoral artery and tolerate greater pressure changes than those in the human aorta. We ultimately found that our in vitro system was limited by supraphysiologic pressure changes caused by aneurysm models with low compliance.

Two Cases of Duodenal Ulcers That Developed after Transcatheter Procedures for Unruptured Visceral Artery Aneurysms

Herein, we report two cases of duodenal ulcers that developed after transcatheter procedures for the treatment of unruptured artery aneurysms. Both patients recovered after the administration of nothing by mouth, intravenous fluids, and proton-pump inhibitors. Notably, the duodenal ulcer was unchanged in one patient six days after endovascular treatment and improved in the other patient 13 days after angiography. These cases suggest that conservative treatment is acceptable in patients with duodenal ischemia that develops as an adverse effect of endovascular procedures. The usefulness of esophagogastroduodenoscopy in such patients has also been highlighted.

3D printing in the preoperative planning and endovascular treatment of splenic artery aneurysm. Own clinical experience and literature review

Splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs) are the most common visceral aneurysms. Endovascular treatment of SAAs is increasingly used. Appropriate preoperative imaging of aneurysms is crucial to treatment planning. The case of a patient with accidentally detected SAA on angio-CT examination was the basis for implementation of 3D printing to prepare an artery model. The 3D model made it easier to qualify for endovascular treatment of the SAA and helped to visualize its morphology. An excellent treatment effect was achieved. 3D printing provides an opportunity for better visualization of SAA anatomy, which has a direct impact on the choice of minimally invasive treatment method.

Surgical Excision of a Contained Rupture of an Inferior Mesenteric Aneurysm

Inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) aneurysms represent the minority of visceral aneurysm presentations. A 57-year-old female was admitted with a symptomatic IMA aneurysm secondary to atherosclerotic disease. She was treated with open excision which revealed a contained ruptured of a true aneurysm. This case highlights the challenges of an accurate preoperative diagnosis of IMA aneurysm and the correct position of the recent guidelines on visceral aneurysms issued by the Society of Vascular Surgery (SVS).

Complex endovascular treatment of a celiac trunk artery aneurysm with splenic artery rescue: Santini et al.: Celiac trunk artery aneurysm treatment - endovascular approach

Visceral arterial aneurysms are uncommon pathologies, with an uncertain ethology and no clear treatment guidelines. As in our case, where we treated a 70 y.o. male patient, who came to us for un unspecific abdominal pain. So, he practiced a CT total body with contrast, presenting a celiac trunk aneurysm with involvement of the hepatic and splenic artery and therefore the team decided for an endovascular treatment, successfully obtained. Our experience is about the description of a case in its most practical and technical aspect, especially in complicated or rare conditions.

A Case Report: Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm causing life-threatening haemobilia

Introduction & importance

Hepatic artery aneurysms (HAA) are rare and it accounts 20% of all visceral artery aneurysms. Commonly HAAs are autopsy findings, but rupture and bleeding carrying significant morbidity and can manifest as haemobilia.

Case presentation

A 63-year-old Sri Lankan male presented with severe melaena upper abdominal pain and features of obstructive jaundice was found to have a giant pseudoaneurysm at the right hepatic artery with the possible arterio-biliary fistula. The etiology for the pseudoaneurysm was not identified. Despite massive transfusion, the patient died before the endovascular intervention.

Clinical discussion

Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of HAA formation but can be associated with connective tissue disorders and arteritis. Most of the HAA are asymptomatic. Aneurysms can be managed with surgical or endovascular interventions.

Conclusion

Life-threatening haemobilia is a notorious complication of the rapture of HAA into the biliary system. The incidents of hepatic artery aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms due to percutaneous transhepatic interventions and minimal invasive hepatobiliary surgeries are in the rising trend. Nonleaking VAA can be best treated with endovascular treatment. The knowledge on this topic is important for the early detection and intervention of this rare entity.

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Massive Gastrointestinal bleeding can be haemobilia.

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Rupture of vascular aneurysms into the biliary system can cause severe haemobilia.

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Incidents of Hepatic artery aneurysms due to minimal invasive transhepatic procedures are in a rising trend.

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Non-leaking Visceral artery aneurysms can be managed best with Endovascular treatment.

Management of a common and proper hepatic artery aneurysm

First-line management of hepatic artery aneurysms is via an endovascular approach. However, unfavorable anatomy may preclude this. We present a patient with an aneurysm involving most of the common hepatic artery and the entire proper hepatic artery including the emergence of the right and left hepatic artery and the gastroduodenal artery. The endovascular approach was not feasible due to unfavorable anatomy. The patient was successfully treated with an open bifurcated Dacron graft.

Endovascular treatment with stenting of celiac artery aneurysms

This study aimed to detail the clinical outcomes of patients suffering from celiac arterial aneurysm (CAA) that underwent treatment via stent occlusion.This is a single-center, retrospective study. A total of 8 consecutive CAA patients were treated via stent occlusion from March 2014 to September 2018 at our hospital. Follow-up computed tomography was conducted after stenting at 1, 3, 6, and 12-month time points and every year thereafter. Both short- and long-term outcomes were assessed.In total, 8 stents were inserted into these 8 patients, with 2 being uncovered and 6 being covered stents. In 2 patients, stents were positioned in the celiac artery, while in the remaining 6 patients they were placed in the celiac and common hepatic arteries. The median operative duration was 66 minutes. No patients exhibited procedure-associated complications, and the median follow-up duration was 39 months (range: 18-72). Abdominal contrast-enhanced CT analyses of these patients exhibited stent and distal artery patency in 100% of patients, together with CAA obliteration. Visceral necrosis did not occur in any patients over the follow-up period.Stent occlusion can be safely and effectively used to treat CAA patients.

Unusual case of upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage secondary to a ruptured gastroduodenal artery pseudoaneurysm: case presentation and literature review

Pseudoaneurysm rupture of the gastroduodenal artery (GDA) is life-threatening and can present as an acute upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage. Here, we present a case of upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage arising from a ruptured GDA pseudoaneurysm. A 56-year-old woman presented acutely with haematemesis. She reported ongoing upper epigastric pain for a few weeks. Laboratory evaluation revealed severe microcytic hypochromic anaemia (haemoglobin, 69 g/L; normal, 120-140 g/L) and a mildly raised serum amylase level. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed dark blood collection between the rugae of the distal stomach. An abdominal CT scan detected a homogeneously enhancing rounded lesion arising from the GDA adjacent to the second part of the duodenum. The median arcuate ligament was causing stenosis of the coeliac axis origin. The diagnosis of haematemesis secondary to a ruptured GDA pseudoaneurysm was confirmed by mesenteric angiography, and aneurysmal embolisation was done. The haemoglobin level stabilised after aneurysmal embolisation.

Experience of managing superior mesenteric artery aneurysm and its midterm follow-up results with 18 cases

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the clinical features, treatment, and prognosis of superior mesenteric artery aneurysms and provide evidence for clinical decision-making.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the diagnosis and treatment of 18 cases of superior mesenteric artery aneurysm admitted to our center from 2003 to 2020, including demographic data, risk factors, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment strategies, and follow-up results.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients was 49.1 years, and males accounted 83.3%. The development of the disease was associated with infection, hypertension, pancreatitis, and trauma, but no significant associations with atherosclerosis were noted by our results. Nine patients were diagnosed with true aneurysm, seven patients with pseudoaneurysm, and two patients with dissecting aneurysm. Rupture of aneurysm occurred in three patients (16.7%), and one of them died before surgery. The surgery success rate was 94.1%, and open surgery was performed on nine patients, endovascular surgery on three patients, and conservative treatment on three patients. The follow-up rate was 77.8% (14/18), and the average follow-up time was 48.2 months. The mortality and reintervention rate during follow-up was 0. The two-year patency rate of artificial vessels and covered stents was 50%.

CONCLUSION

The clinical manifestations and features of superior mesenteric artery aneurysms vary between patients. Careful evaluation of vascular anatomy and personalized treatment strategy are critical in the management of superior mesenteric artery aneurysms. Midterm follow-up results of superior mesenteric artery aneurysms are satisfactory.

Aneurysms of pancreaticoduodenal arcade: Clinical profile and endovascular strategies

Background and Aim

Pancreaticoduodenal arcade aneurysms (PDAAs) are uncommon lesions associated with a significant risk of rupture and mortality. This study describes the etiology, clinical presentation, and endovascular management strategies of PDAAs across a spectrum of indications.

Methods

The clinical records of patients with PDAAs referred for endovascular management from January 2018 till November 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on presenting symptoms, associated etiologies, and outcomes after endovascular treatment were collected and studied.

Results

We found 15 patients with false and 1 patient with true aneurysm of pancreatoduodenal arcade (PDA). The associated conditions were coeliac artery stenosis, severe necrotizing pancreatitis, and chronic pancreatitis or iatrogenic (postendoscopic papillotomy and percutaneous metallic biliary stenting). The main presenting feature was gastrointestinal bleed, while 2 patients had abdominal pain and 1 had gastric outlet obstruction. A multiphase computed tomography scan demonstrated the ruptured aneurysm in all patients. Site of origin of PDAA influenced the choice of transarterial endovascular strategy (coiling for aneurysms of main trunk of arteries and glue injection for those arising from small arterial branches). This was carried out in an emergency setting for 12 patients and as an elective procedure in 4 patients. Technical success was demonstrated in all patients and clinical success in 14. The two patients who had rebleed were salvaged by repeat endovascular procedure. Postembolization syndrome was seen in three patients.

Conclusions

With advancing technology, endovascular strategies continue to evolve. Careful attention to ensure hemodynamic resuscitation and stability, correction of pre‐existing coagulopathy and attention to technique can lead to the possibility of endovascular approaches as a dependable option in the management of ruptured PDAAs.

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.

Systematic and Multidisciplinary Evaluation of Fibromuscular Dysplasia Patients Reveals High Prevalence of Previously Undetected Fibromuscular Dysplasia Lesions and Affects Clinical Decisions: The ARCADIA-POL Study

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD), regarded as a generalized vascular disease, may affect all vascular beds and may result in arterial stenosis, occlusion, aneurysm, or dissection. It has been proposed to systematically evaluate all vascular beds in patients with FMD, regardless of initial FMD involvement. However, the impact of this approach on clinical decisions and on management is unknown. Within the prospective ARCADIA-POL study (Assessment of Renal and Cervical Artery Dysplasia-Poland), we evaluated 232 patients with FMD lesions confirmed in at least one vascular bed, out of 343 patients included in the registry. All patients underwent a detailed clinical evaluation including computed tomography angiography of intracranial and cervical arteries, as well as computed tomography angiography of the abdominal aorta, its branches, and upper and lower extremity arteries. In the study group, FMD lesions were most frequently found in renal arteries (87.5%). FMD was also found in cerebrovascular (24.6%), mesenteric (13.8%), and upper (3.0%) and lower extremity (9.9 %) arteries. Newly diagnosed FMD lesions were found in 34.1% of the patients, and previously undetected vascular complications were found in 25% of the patients. Among all FMD patients included in the study, one out of every 4 evaluated patients qualified for interventional treatment due to newly diagnosed FMD lesions or vascular complications. The ARCADIA-POL study shows for the first time that the systematic and multidisciplinary evaluation of patients with FMD based on a whole-body computed tomography angiography scan has an impact on their clinical management. This proved the necessity of the systematic evaluation of all vascular beds in patients with FMD, regardless of initial FMD involvement.

Naturally shrunk visceral artery aneurysms by stenting for the superior mesenteric artery occlusion

A 77-year-old woman who had experienced postprandial abdominal pain for four years was admitted to our institution presenting sudden and severe abdominal pain. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) demonstrated complete short-segmented occlusion in the orifice of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA), and saccular aneurysms in the right hepatic artery and the anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal artery. She was diagnosed with abdominal angina due to occlusion of the SMA. The SMA was recanalized by stenting, and a CECT scan confirmed naturally shrunk aneurysms after eight months. The patency of the SMA was maintained at five years after endovascular treatment.

Endovascular stent repair of celiac arterial aneurysm

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and clinical effectiveness of endovascular stent repair of celiac arterial aneurysm (CAA).From January 2015 to December 2018, 11 patients (7 males, 4 females with a mean age of 52.2 ± 7.9 years) underwent endovascular stent repair of CAA in our center. A covered stent was used to occlude the CAA neck. Follow-up was performed 2 weeks and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months following surgery and yearly thereafter. Rates of technical success, treatment-related complications, and long-term outcome were analyzed.Each patient was placed with 1 stent for repair of CAA. Stent was placed in the celiac and common hepatic arteries for 10 patients and was placed in the celiac artery for 1 patient. The duration of the procedure ranged from 50 to 75 minutes (mean 63.2 ± 7.2 minutes). The rate of technical success of the endovascular stent repair was 100%. No patient experienced CAA rupture or instant endoleak during or after stent insertion. Abdominal pain was relieved progressively after stent insertion. All patients were followed-up for 6 to 48 months (mean 22.4 ± 10.8 months). All patients were alive during the follow-up. No endoleaks were experienced during follow-up with 100% stent patency rate. No patient suffered splenic, hepatic, or bowel infarction during follow-up.Endovascular stent repair is a safe, simple, and effective treatment for patients with CAA.

Current management strategies for visceral artery aneurysms: an overview

Visceral artery aneurysms (VAAs) are rare and affect the celiac artery, superior mesenteric artery, and inferior mesenteric artery, and their branches. The natural history of VAAs is not well understood as they are often asymptomatic and found incidentally; however, they carry a risk of rupture that can result in death from hemorrhage in the peritoneal cavity, retroperitoneal space, or gastrointestinal tract. Recent advances in imaging technology and its availability allow us to diagnose all types of VAA. VAAs can be treated by open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, endovascular therapy, or a hybrid approach. However, there are still no specific indications for the treatment of VAAs, and the best strategy depends on the anatomical location of the aneurysm as well as the clinical presentation of the patient. This article reviews the literature on the etiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and anatomic characteristics of each type of VAA and discusses the current options for their treatment and management.