Background: Aneurysms of the splenic artery which arise anomalously from the superior mesenteric artery are extremely rare but clinically important because of their life-threatening hemorrhage. Diagnostic imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis and conducting treatment strategy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the detection of anomalous splenic artery aneurysms with 3D contrast-enhanced MR angiography.
Methods: 3D contrast-enhanced MR angiography was performed in six patients with anomalous splenic artery aneurysms.
Results: The mean diameter of six aneurysms was 3.9 cm. All of them were saccular and located at the origin of the splenic artery that arose anomalously from the root of the superior mesenteric artery. 3D contrast-enhanced MR angiography clearly demonstrated the aneurysm's location, size, morphology, visceral arterial variations, and was superior to DSA in three-dimensional display of the aneurysm and its relationship with surrounding vessels and organs. Two patients underwent open vascular surgery and three endovascular procedure.
Conclusion: 3D contrast-enhanced MR angiography is a noninvasive and accurate technique for diagnosis of anomalous splenic artery aneurysms. Its 3D anatomic information is very helpful for treatment planning. It can be used as one of the first choice examinations for anomalous splenic artery aneurysms.