Median arcuate ligament syndrome (also known as MALS and Dunbar syndrome) is a medical condition associated with the compression of the celiac trunk and sometimes celiac ganglion by the median arcuate ligament. The main symptoms include epigastric pain, usually postprandial that may lead to anorexia and significant weight loss. The treatment of MALS is necessary as it may lead to gastroparesis and development of aneurysms within the pancreaticoduodenal artery.
The median arcuate ligament release surgery is performed with laparoscopic approach. The procedure involves the division of the ligament with the release of celiac trunk. During the surgery it is necessary to assess the blood flow through the celiac trunk. Laparoscopic approach allows an early discharge of a patient and quick return to perform daily activities.
