Abernethy Malformation and Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt (CEPS), also termed Abernethy malformation (AF) is a rare anomaly of the splanchnic venous system. Several approaches, including shunt closures through surgical or radiological interventions and liver transplantations, have been proposed, but clear comparisons among different treatment strategies are still unavailable. Purpose: We report a case in which an unusual portosystemic shunt was present between the dilated inferior mesenteric vein (IMV) to the right ovarian vein. A mini literature review of AF patients presented with gastrointestinal (GI) tract bleeding. Research design: Case report and literature review. Data Collection: An electronic search of PubMed was performed from inception to December 2023. Results: 34 AF patients presented with GI tract bleeding were identified published in the literature. The proportion of type II AF patients presenting with GI bleeding is greater (79%). Conclusions: We regard that both surgical ligation and endovascular closure of the shunt are effective and safe treatments for these patients, but coils embolization alone may not be sufficient to completely close the shunt when the shunt flow is high.