Aberrant Left Testicular Artery Originating from the Inferior Mesenteric Artery Identified on Angiography in a Patient with Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Case Report

Abstract

Background and Clinical Significance: This case presents a rare variation in mesenteric and pelvic vasculature that holds relevance for endovascular procedures. Limited published cases of the testicular artery arising off the inferior mesenteric artery exist in the literature and play an important role in clinical outcomes. Case Presentation: An 89-year-old male presented with gastrointestinal bleeding from diverticulosis. During an arteriogram to locate and assess sigmoid arteries for embolization, an unusual anatomical variant of the left testicular artery was discovered. Typically, the left testicular artery originates from the abdominal aorta below the renal arteries. However, in this patient, the left testicular artery was found to directly branch off the inferior mesenteric artery, while the superior rectal artery was absent from the inferior mesenteric artery. Conclusions: Awareness of such vascular variations is essential for interventionalists to optimize procedural success and minimize complications. Recognizing potential vascular anomalies, such as those presented in this case, is essential for effective pre-procedural planning and intraoperative management to improve patient outcomes.

Keywords: anatomic variation; angiography; embolization; inferior; mesenteric artery; superior; therapeutic.

Figure 1

Inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) angiogram demonstrating accessory artery supplying left testis.

Figure 2

Left testicular artery (LTA) originating from the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA). No superior rectal branch was present.