Multiple variations of the hepatobiliary vasculature including a splenomesenteric trunk

Loukas M, Shah R, Tubbs S, Merbs W
Correspondence: Dr Marios Loukas, mloukas@sgu.edu

ABSTRACT
Anatomical variations of the origins and branching patterns of the hepatobiliary system may be encountered during both surgical and laparoscopic procedures. We report the rare finding of a splenomesenteric trunk with an absent coeliac trunk in a 74-year-old female cadaver. Due to the absence of the coeliac trunk, the common hepatic artery was found to originate from the splenic artery. Embryological considerations and possible clinical consequences are discussed.

Keywords: coeliac trunk, hepatobiliary system, splenomesenteric trunk, superior mesenteric artery
Singapore Med J 2010; 51(1): e6-e8