The median arcuate ligament is a fibrous band that connects the right and left crura (muscular pillars) of the diaphragm as they cross over the aorta. In some individuals, this ligament sits lower than usual and compresses the celiac artery, a condition known as median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS). On Doppler ultrasound, this compression causes elevated peak systolic velocities in the celiac artery, particularly during expiration when the diaphragm descends and increases pressure on the vessel. Sonographers may be asked to evaluate celiac artery flow in both inspiration and expiration to help diagnose this condition, which can cause abdominal pain after eating and weight loss.
Sonography Term