Computerized Tomography (CT) based Angiographic Study of Variations in Origin and Branching Pattern of Superior Mesenteric Artery in Adult Kashmiri Population - An Observational Study
Izat Amin Wani, Javed Ahmad Khan, Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, Mohammad Saleem Dar, Bashir Ahmad Shah, Shiekh Aaakida HussainAbstract
Introduction:
Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is the second visceral branch of the abdominal aorta, arising at the level of L1 vertebra in adults. Variations in its branching pattern can impact surgical and diagnostic interventions. High-resolution visualization of vascular anatomy by contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) angiographic examination helps identify population-specific differences. The study aimed to evaluate the anatomical variations in the origin and branching pattern of the SMA in the adult Kashmiri population employing high-resolution CECT angiography.
Methodology:
This hospital-based observational study analyzed 200 eligible computed tomography angiograms of the abdomen patients referred to the department of radiodiagnosis and imaging fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included based on the predefined criteria. Systemic contrast (Omnipaque 350) injection was followed by high-resolution imaging to delineate the SMA and its branches with special emphasis on variation in origin and branching.
Results:
Significant variations included a common trunk for ileocolic and right colic arteries in 3% of cases, a celiomesenteric trunk in 4% of cases, early bifurcation of SMA into jejunal and ileal branches in 2% of cases, and origin of right hepatic artery from SMA in 1% of cases.
Conclusion:
Identification of vascular variations in Kashmiri patients is essential for accurate preoperative planning and minimizing surgical complications. This study enriches the angiographic literature and emphasizes the need for regional studies to optimize clinical outcomes. Routine angiographic evaluation should be incorporated into diagnostic protocols to enhance patient care in this population.