Superior mesenteric artery syndrome after blunt abdominal trauma: a case report

Vasc Endovascular Surg. 2010 Jul;44(5):410-2. doi: 10.1177/1538574410369390. Epub 2010 May 18.

Abstract

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is a rare cause of bowel obstruction. It is characterized anatomically by a narrowed aortomesenteric angle, causing a mechanical obstruction at the third portion of the duodenum. Patients usually present after prolonged confinement in the supine position, significant acute weight loss, application of body casts, and severe burns with symptoms of a small bowel obstruction. We present the case of a healthy 22-year-old male athlete with SMA syndrome that occurred after blunt abdominal injury in the setting of mild chronic weight loss; he was treated nonoperatively.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Injuries / complications*
  • Abdominal Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Abdominal Injuries / therapy
  • Basketball / injuries*
  • Decompression
  • Humans
  • Intubation, Gastrointestinal
  • Male
  • Parenteral Nutrition, Total
  • Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome / diagnostic imaging
  • Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome / etiology*
  • Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome / therapy
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Weight Loss
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / complications*
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / diagnostic imaging
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / therapy
  • Young Adult