Safe Laparoscopic Pancreatectomy in a Patient with Rare Superior Mesenteric Artery-Derived Gastroduodenal Artery: A Case Report and Technical Considerations

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Although several studies have highlighted the importance of recognizing gastroduodenal artery (GDA) anomalies during pancreaticoduodenectomy, their relevance during distal pancreatectomy has not been explored. Herein, we describe the safe performance of laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy in a patient with a rare vascular anomaly, specifically a GDA originating from the superior mesenteric artery (SMA).

CASE PRESENTATION: A 63-year-old woman presented with recurrent pancreatitis due to a cystic lesion in the pancreatic body. Imaging suggested a branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm with substantial ductal stenosis. Multidetector CT (MDCT) revealed a rare anatomical variant: the GDA, arising from the SMA and traversing along the inferior border of the pancreas. Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy was performed after placing an endoscopic nasopancreatic drainage tube. The aberrant GDA was successfully preserved through careful dissection and vessel loop isolation. Pancreatic transection was completed without vascular injury. A postoperative pancreatic fistula developed and was conservatively managed. Histopathological examination confirmed that the lesion was an intraductal papillary mucinous carcinoma without any invasive features. Follow-up MDCT revealed sustained patency and perfusion of the preserved GDA, right gastroepiploic artery, and anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal artery.

CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic pancreatectomy can be safely performed in patients with SMA-derived GDA anomalies, when supported by detailed preoperative imaging and precise intraoperative techniques. These findings highlight the necessity of routine preoperative vascular assessment in patients undergoing minimally invasive pancreatic surgery, reinforcing the broader applicability of these approaches for patients with complicated vascular anatomy.