Isolated superior mesenteric artery traumatic injury following body height fall across a log

This case outlines a 71-year-old male falling from body height horizontally across a log with isolated superior mesenteric artery vascular injury, a rarity in minor blunt force trauma. A computed tomography abdomen and pelvis with contrast was ordered revealing active contrast blush arising from a major mesenteric vessel consistent with active arterial bleeding. Bowels and solid intra-abdominal organs were spared from any injuries. He underwent an emergency laparotomy following immediate resuscitation. The bleeding was controlled with clamping of the proximal and distal segments of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). A severed branch of SMA was identified and ligated to stop the haemorrhage. The patient’s recovery was uncomplicated, and he was discharged home on post-operative day 8. This case report highlights a unique mechanism of injury causing a rare injury pattern, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and definitive surgical intervention.