Splenic Artery Aneurysms and Hepatic Artery Dissection

Abstract

Abdominal aorta aneurysms (AAAs) are common in the vascular field. Testing for this phenomenon is rather easy; simply order an AAA screening via ultrasound. What is not common, however, is finding an aneurysm of the much smaller branches of the splanchnic arteries. These arteries consist of the celiac artery (CA), common hepatic artery (CHA), splenic artery (SA), gastric artery, and superior mesenteric (SMA) and inferior mesenteric arteries (IMA). The most common aneurysm location in these vessels is the SA. These aneurysms can prove fatal if ruptured and are most dangerous in young women who are pregnant and of child bearing age. Even more rare than SA, aneurysms are hepatic artery aneurysms and dissections. In one case study from 1995, there had only been 12 cases documented with isolated hepatic artery dissection. With the increase in technology and imaging modalities, small visceral aneurysms are now found much more prevalently. Treatment options for these unique problems are still under debate, as there are a limited number of occurrences and the ability to accurately track the progression of the aneurysms has improved.