Are you having recurring stomach pains, nausea, and vomiting? These are signs of Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS). MALS is a condition that occurs when the celiac artery is stretched by the medial arcuate ligament reducing the flow of blood to abdominal organs. Although rare, MALS can be unpleasant and painful for those affected.
MALS surgery may relieve symptoms of a celiac compressor by relaxing the artery that is compressed by celiac compression. Every surgery is a challenge, and patients must know what to expect before the procedure, throughout, and after.
Exploring MALS Surgery
This article will cover the steps involved in MALS surgery, including pre-op preparation, the procedure itself, and post-operative recovery.
Before the Procedure
- Consultation with a Surgeon: To begin MALS treatment, the first stage is to arrange a consultation with a specialist surgeon. During the consultation, they will review your symptoms and medical history before ordering imaging tests to confirm your MALS diagnosis. If they decide that you’re a person who is a candidate for a minimally-invasive MALS surgery, they will then discuss the possible risks and advantages of undergoing this surgery.
- Pre-Operative Preparation: If you’ve decided to go through MALS surgery, your surgeon will give you instructions for preparation. It could include fasting for an adequate time before surgery, stopping certain medications, and avoiding certain beverages or food items. Before the surgery, they also recommend performing pre-operative tests like blood tests and an electrocardiogram.
It is always preferred to consult a specialist and contact their Santa Monica clinic before you decide to undergo the procedure. You can inquire about the pros and cons of the procedure and its effect on your body.
During the Procedure
- Anesthesia: MALS procedure is performed under general anesthesia, meaning you’ll be asleep. An anesthesiologist can be found during the procedure to observe vital signs and ensure you are comfortable.
- Cut: Your surgeon will make a small incision to access the celiac artery that has become compressed during MALS. This may be either horizontally or vertically based on their preferred location and desired outcomes.
- Ligament Release: The surgeon will release the medial arcuate ligament after this step. It will then compress the celiac vein and limit blood flow to organs in the abdomen. To accomplish this release procedure, they can cut or trim off a part of it before opening it to allow for the proper functioning of the celiac artery and improved blood flow to the internal organs of the abdomen.
- Close: Once the ligament has been freed, a surgeon can close the incision using staples or sutures and then place an incision that is small enough to drain any extra fluids accumulating.
After the Procedure
- Hospital Stay: You will be carefully monitored. The discomfort you experience can be treated with painkillers. You will be urged to stand and get moving as soon as possible to prevent issues such as blood clots.
- Post-surgery: You must take it slow and visit your surgeon regularly to ensure you get the best treatment. Avoid physical activity or heavy lifting until told to do it is advised. You can visit this page for more info about MALS surgery and procedure.
- Long-Term Outlook: Most people who have MALS surgery experience considerable relief in their symptoms; However, any surgery could be a risk for bleeding, infection, or organ damage. You must consult with your doctor before beginning any procedure.
Conclusion
MALS surgery may provide relief for those suffering from median arcuate ligament syndrome. While the procedure is not without risk, many feel its benefits outweigh them. If you’re thinking about MALS surgical procedure as a way of relief, consult with an expert in the field for the best advice and guidance before making your choice.
