Dunbar's syndrome and superior mesenteric artery's syndrome: a rare association

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Rare Diseases

Background:

• Celiac artery compression syndrome (CACS) and superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) are rare vascular conditions.
• The co-occurrence of CACS and SMAS is infrequently reported and not well-studied.
• Existing literature lacks specific investigation into the association between these two syndromes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between Celiac artery compression syndrome and Superior mesenteric artery syndrome.
• To analyze the common aspects of pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment for CACS and SMAS.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of surgical intervention for patients presenting with both CACS and SMAS.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patient data from January 1974 to June 2004.
• Inclusion of patients diagnosed with Celiac artery compression syndrome (n=59) and Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (n=28).
• Analysis of 8 patients diagnosed with the coexistence of both CACS and SMAS.

Main Results:

• Eight patients were identified with the coexistence of Celiac artery compression syndrome and Superior mesenteric artery syndrome.
• These 8 patients underwent successful treatment with duodenojejunal bypass and decompression of the celiac trunk.
• The study highlights the importance of considering both syndromes due to potential misdiagnosis impacting treatment outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The association between Celiac artery compression syndrome and Superior mesenteric artery syndrome, though rare, can be effectively managed surgically.
• Duodenojejunal bypass and celiac trunk decompression represent a viable treatment for the combined condition.
• Accurate diagnosis of coexisting CACS and SMAS is crucial for successful surgical outcomes and avoiding controversial results.