Laparoscopic Management of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome

OBJECTIVES: The differential diagnosis of intestinal obstruction includes mechanical obstruction, obstruction secondary to systemic disease, and idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction. The causes of these are extensive; however, the majority of cases involve a mechanical cause. Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) is a rare and controversial form of mechanical obstruction with just over 300 well-defined cases described in the literature. The diagnosis is often difficult to establish, even after surgery. In addition, this syndrome sometimes may be managed conservatively, leaving a definitive diagnosis unproven. We describe herein 2 patients with SMAS successfully treated with laparoscopic duodenojejunostomy. METHODS: Two cases of SMAS occurred in young men ages 23 and 34. The workup included a consultation with a gastroenterologist, an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, upper GI series with small bowel follow-through, computed tomography scan, ultrasound of the abdomen, and abdominal aortogram. This diagnosis was established after consultation with the surgeon and the gastroenterologist in each case. RESULTS: Laparoscopic duodenojejunostomy was performed in each case, and both patients have had complete resolution of their preoperative symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: A laparoscopic approach to the management of superior mesenteric artery syndrome is a reasonable and successful way of treating these patients.