Vascular Encasement
Tumor growth completely surrounding and involving major blood vessels, affecting surgical resectability.
Full Definition
Vascular encasement occurs when malignant tumors grow circumferentially around major arteries or veins, typically involving more than 180 degrees of the vessel wall. This finding is crucial in determining resectability and staging, particularly in pancreatic, hepatic, and retroperitoneal malignancies. Encasement often indicates locally advanced disease and may contraindicate standard resection. Assessment is typically made using high-resolution CT angiography or MRI, with specific criteria varying by anatomic location and vessel involvement.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from vessel abutment (<180 degrees contact) and vessel displacement (no direct contact).
In Context
- "CT imaging demonstrated vascular encasement of the superior mesenteric artery by the pancreatic head mass." — radiology report
- "The tumor showed greater than 270-degree vascular encasement of the portal vein, precluding standard pancreaticoduodenectomy." — multidisciplinary team meeting note