Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: The origin of the mesenteric vasculature is highly variable. One such variation is the common celiaco-mesenteric trunk (CMT). To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of subacute duodenal obstruction caused by common CMT. The awareness of this anomaly helps keep a high index of suspicion for varied presentations, prompts appropriate investigations, timely intervention, and avoids iatrogenic injury. PATIENT PROFILE: A 15-year-old boy presented with a history of repeated attacks of colicky abdominal pain with bilious vomiting. Computed tomography of the abdomen with intravenous contrast revealed subacute duodenal obstruction caused by an acute angulation of common CMT with the abdominal aorta. To relieve the obstruction, the patient underwent a side-to-side duodenojejunostomy. DISCUSSION: A common CMT, where the coeliac artery (CA) and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) have a common origin from the aorta, accounts for less than 1% of all splanchnic artery anomalies. Most CMTs are incidental findings, but aneurysm or dissection of the common trunk commonly accompany this anatomical aberrancy. Intestinal obstruction due to CMT anomaly is a rare occurrence. CONCLUSION: There should be a high index of suspicion concerning vascular anomalies in patients, especially children presenting with repeated episodes of subacute intestinal obstruction. This knowledge of vascular aberrations prevents disastrous iatrogenic complications.