Revascularization of the superior mesenteric artery

From 1965 to 1973, 7 patients with severe chronic mesenteric vascular insufficiency have been successfully operated upon. Abdominal pain, weight loss and epigastric murmur were the most significant symptoms and signs in these diffusely atheromatous patients. Aortography with exposure in the lateral projection was essential for diagnosis and operative planning. Although two and often all three main splanchnic arteries were involved, revasculariztion of only the superior mesenteric artery restored normal hemodynamics. There was no operative mortality. Weight gain was dramatic and post-prandial pain disappeared in all patients. One patient diedone year and one half after the operation from an acute cerebro-vascular accidnet. Our surgical experience in this field, although small, is very gratifying and rewarding.