Laparoscopic MALS Surgery In Dubai

What is Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome?

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) is when the median arcuate ligament pulls excessively tightly on the celiac artery (a main branch of the aorta that transports blood to the liver, stomach, and the other organs) and the nerves in the area (celiac plexus).

Ligaments are tissue bands that join one bone or cartilage to another. The median arcuate ligament is an arch-shaped ligament that connects the diaphragm to the spine by going around the aorta (the artery in the heart that carries blood throughout the body).

The median arcuate ligament operates like a hammer in a person with MALS, while the celiac axis acts like an anvil, compressing the take-off of major vessels and squeezing nerves in between. (The “take off” point is where the celiac axis splits into three branches: the hepatic, left gastric, and splenic arteries.) 

MAL cuts off blood circulation to the stomach and liver by squeezing the artery before it branches. This is why patients complain of pain after eating.

Symptoms of MALS

Recognizing MALS is the first step toward treating the condition effectively. Keep a watchful eye for these signs:

  • Chronic abdominal pain
  • Weight loss
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Postprandial pain (pain after eating)
  • Abdominal bruit (a whooshing sound over the abdomen)

If you identify with any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with a specialist like Dr. Nikolas Valsamidis for a comprehensive evaluation and effective median arcuate ligament syndrome treatment.

What Causes Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS)?

MALS is primarily caused by the compression of the celiac artery by the median arcuate ligament. This compression, in turn, restricts blood flow to the organs of the upper abdomen, leading to the characteristic symptoms associated with the syndrome.

Diagnosing MALS

Accurate diagnosis is pivotal in formulating an effective median arcuate ligament syndrome treatment plan. Dr. Valsamidis employs a range of diagnostic methods, including:

  • Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
  • Doppler Ultrasound
  • Mesenteric Duplex Ultrasound

These advanced diagnostic tools enable a precise blood flow evaluation and help confirm the presence of MALS.

Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome Treatment

Navigating the path to relief, Dr. Nikolas Valsamidis specializes in innovative treatment options focusing on laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery for MALS in Dubai offers a minimally invasive approach, reducing recovery time and postoperative discomfort.

Treatment Options Include:

  • Lifestyle modifications
  • Medications for pain management
  • Angioplasty or stenting
  • Laparoscopic decompression of the celiac artery

Consult Dr. Nikolas Valsamidis for mals disease treatment in Dubai

If you want mals disease or mals syndrome treatment in Dubai, consult Dr. Nikolas Valsamidis, a board-certified bariatric and laparoscopic surgeon. 

With over 25 years of rich experience, Dr. Nikolas has performed over 2,500 advanced weight loss procedures, establishing himself as a leader in laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques.

Book your appointment today.