[Traumatic aneurysm of the superior mesenteric artery associated with a burst- fracture of the second lumbar spine -- unforeseen sequelae of a fall from a ladder!].

Traumatic aneurysms of the superior mesenteric artery, although uncommon, are nevertheless life-threatening because of their high risk of rupture. In this case report the aneurysm was accompanied by a burst fracture of the second lumbar spine nearly at the same height. In a prolonged case the diagnosis of the injury was delayed. The clinical manifestation of repeated episodes of abdominal pain did not recur after resection of the aneurysm and interposition of a venous autograft.