ANEURYSM OF THE RIGHT COLIC ARTERY

Aneurysms of the superior mesenteric artery branches are rare. Spontan eous intra-abdominal hemorrhage resulting from rupture of a visceral a rtery aneurysm is difficult to diagnose and carries high mortality. We present a case in which a rupture of the right colic artery aneurysm presented as an acute abdomen. Diagnosis was established intraoperativ ely. Angiography and a high degree of suspicion are valuable diagnosti c tools. Exact etiology was not determined in our case. Because of hig h risk of rupture, aneurysms of the superior mesenteric artery branche s should be resected.