Visceral aneurysms
A visceral artery aneurysm is ballooning of a section of an arterial vessel, which becomes a risk for rupture and bleeding that can be fatal. These abnormally dilated vessels occur within abdominal cavity arteries, including the celiac artery, the superior mesenteric artery, the inferior mesenteric artery, the hepatic artery, the splenic artery and the renal arteries.
Causes of Visceral Aneurysms
Visceral aneurysms may be caused by:
- Atherosclerosis
- Degeneration of the artery wall
- Fibromuscular dysplasia
- Disease in connective tissues
- Trauma
Treatment of Visceral Aneurysms
Catheter-based embolization or stent-graft placement are two major treatment options. Embolization is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure where blood flow is cut off to the area and rerouted around the aneurysm.
Surgery may be necessary if the aneurysm is in a location which prevents adequate or safe repair by embolization or stent-graft placement. Generally, visceral aneurysms don’t need repair unless they are larger than 2 cm.
The above information is not all inclusive of the risks, alternatives and benefits. It is not meant to be a substitute for informed discussion between you and your doctor, but can act as a starting point for such a discussion. There are complications possible with any medical procedure. Overall, minimally invasive procedures have a lower complication rate than open surgeries.
