Severe Stenosis of the Celiac Artery

Seventeen patients with celiac artery stenosis causing abdominal angina or the development of collateral channels were studied. Of 7 patients with abdominal angina, 5 had celiac compression relieved by surgery and 2 had atherosclerosis. Most of the 10 asymptomatic patients were somewhat older, and none were operated upon. Angiographically, the stenosis was believed to be congenital in 3 and atherosclerotic in 7. Abundant collateral vessels were present in all asymptomatic patients. Since the angiographic appearances may be identical in patients with and without symptoms, careful clinical evaluation prior to surgical intervention is necessary.