Here’s some helpful images that show what MALS (Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome) looks like on the inside.

First, a cross section from my own CT scan…

And then a couple helpful illustrations from Dr. Matt Skalski.

From the above images, you can see how the median arcuate ligament in some people sits too low, compressing the celiac artery. This causes impaired blood flow in the intestines along with pain, nausea and fatigue. That, in turn, can cause a host of secondary health issues.

MALS surgery relieves these issues by cutting back the ligament. Many surgeons will also cut back or remove the celiac ganglion nerves — a bundle of nerves that get irritated and damaged due to the MALS compression.