Study of Spontaneous Isolated Splanchnic Artery Dissection

Abstract

The isolated dissection of the splanchnic artery is relatively rare and there is no consensus on the optimal treatment strategy. We report 4 cases of isolated splanchnic dissection. The mean patient age was 54 years (range, 47–64), and all were treated with conservative therapy during the period of observation. In all 4 cases, conservative management successfully resolved the isolated dissection of a splanchnic artery, with a benign clinical course and no evidence of progression of the dissection on multidetector computed tomography following the therapeutic periods. It is considered common that isolated splanchnic dissection progression is limited during the period of observation and furthermore, develops little 6 months after onset. Multidetector computed tomography is useful not only for accurate diagnosis in isolated splanchnic artery dissection, but also when considering its treatment. Based on our experience, cases without acute intestinal ischemia or aneurysmal changes can be treated conservatively.