BN SO39 - Laparoscopic Release of Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome: A Case Series

Abstract Background Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) is a recognized, but rare condition, which is characterized by compression of the celiac artery and ganglion by median arcuate ligament. The entity often presented with chronic post-prandial abdominal pain, vomiting, and weight loss. These patients often undergo comprehensive investigation prior to diagnosis of MALS. This report presents our experience and short-term outcomes of patients with laparoscopic release of MALS at our center. Method Between 2022-2024, five patients with MALS underwent laparoscopic release at a tertiary HPB center under a single surgeon (TS). Data on patient demographics, presenting symptoms and duration, preoperative diagnostic tests, intraoperative findings and complications, postoperative complications, symptom recurrence and follow-up were prospectively maintained. All patients were discussed at a tertiary Vascular and HPB MDT; MALS was confirmed on US doppler (USD) and CT angiogram (CTA) (fish-hook type configuration of Celiac Truck with post-stenotic dilatation). Results Two male and three female patients, with a median (range) age of 41 (25-70) years, underwent laparoscopic MALS release. The median (range) preoperative symptom duration was 54 (24-67) months, with most common presentation of post-prandial abdominal pain and weight loss. The median (range) BMI was 19.61 (18.30-17.82). The median (range) operative time was 313 (166-330) minutes. One patient required conversion to open due to bleeding from celiac trunk. The median (range) LOS was 7 (4-7) days. No postoperative complications occurred. The median follow-up was 10 months. One patient re-experienced abdominal pain, with no evidence of recurrence on USD and CTA. Conclusion Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome should be considered as a differential in patients presenting with chronic post-prandial abdominal pain and weight loss. Thorough investigation (USD and CTA) along with discussion at Vascular MDT should be undertaken. Laparoscopic release of MALS is a safe and effective treatment option in this cohort.