Multiple Gastrointestinal Vascular Variations in a Male Cadaver: A Case Report and Literature Review of Embryonic, Genetic, and Clinicosurgical Implications of Pathogenicity

BACKGROUND: To be acquainted with gastrointestinal vasculature variations is of utmost importance for establishing proper surgical management, improving safety, and decreasing the frequency of iatrogenic errors or complications arising in operational and post-operational settings. CASE REPORT: The subject of the present publication involves a unique case of an 80-year-old Caucasian male who presented with various vascular variations during routine cadaveric dissection. Key variations presented in this report include unique findings such as an abnormal trifurcation of the celiac trunk, a bifurcation of the superior mesenteric artery, and its associated branches; an unusual portocaval system communication; and various renal variations. These variations are examined in an anatomical and clinical context. We further discuss the possible embryologic and genetic mechanisms which may lead to such vascular abnormalities. CONCLUSION: Furthermore, with this report, we aim to demonstrate the strong need for adequate knowledge of vascular variations as well as the important role of pre-operative imaging in the identification of vascular variations and the elimination of iatrogenic errors during surgical procedures.