Approach in the management of splenomesenteric artery aneurysms, case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Introduction

Aneurysms of the splenomesenteric artery variant are extremely rare with an unusual location; making its management approach challenging.

Case presentation

We report a case of splenomesenteric artery aneurysms that was managed in an endovascular approach in a 56-year-old gentleman with co-morbidity, obesity and anticoagulation treatment. A computed tomography investigating a left flank pain found a left sub-capsular renal hematoma and an incidental finding of a fusiform splenic artery aneurysm originating from the SMA measuring 3.2 × 3.4 cm. An endovascular intervention was performed by combining an embolization of the aneurysm and emplacement of stent graft at the superior mesenteric artery to isolate the aneurysm and prevent coil migration. The patient was discharged at day 2 post-operatively with excellent clinical and radiographic findings upon follow-ups.

Discussion

Splenomesenteric artery aneurysms is rare as there are 47 published cases reported in the literature. They may present with abdominal pain, back pain, flank pain or discovered incidentally. Its open surgical management approach pose various potential difficulties due to its retropancreatic location. Other approaches were proposed in the literature including laparoscopic and endovascular managements.

Conclusion

An appropriate endovascular management can be more feasible and suitable approach management of splenomesenteric artery aneurysms in patients with complicated medical condition.