Contrast-enhanced three-dimensional magnetic resonance angiography for visualization of ectopic varices.

Abstract

We report the case of a 62-year-old male with portal hypertension and recurrent bleeding refractory to surgical intervention from varices in a sigmoid stoma. Although stomal varices were detected neither by physical examination, stomal endoscopy, nor duplex sonography, contrast-enhanced three-dimensional magnetic resonance angiography of the portal vein and its collateral branches demonstrated their presence. Surgical revisions of the stoma failed to prevent bleeding, but implantation of a transjugular intrahepatic shunt successfully prevented recurrent hemorrhage. This case indicates that contrast-enhanced, three-dimensional magnetic resonance angiography is useful to detect this rare complication of portal hypertension and helps to tailor adequate treatment in patients with recurrent bleeding from stomal varices.