Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 11, 2026
05:07
Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
Published on: July 21, 2023
Superior mesenteric artery syndrome in a young military basic trainee
Steven G Schauer1, Andrew J Thompson, Vikhyat S Bebarta
1Department of Emergency Medicine, San Antonio Military Medical Center, 3851 Roger Brooke Drive, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234, USA.
Military Medicine
|May 28, 2013
Summary
A rare condition called Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) syndrome caused a young trainee
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Vascular Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) syndrome is a rare gastrovascular disorder.
- It occurs due to an abnormally narrow takeoff angle of the SMA from the aorta.
- This can lead to symptoms mimicking intestinal angina.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old military trainee presented with a 3-week history of postprandial abdominal pain.
- Initial lab tests and liver function were normal.
- Computed tomography angiography revealed a narrow SMA takeoff angle.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) syndrome.
- SMA syndrome can lead to severe complications like bowel obstruction and perforation.
- Computed tomography angiography is effective for prompt diagnosis in emergency settings.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis of SMA syndrome is crucial for timely intervention.
- This case highlights the utility of computed tomography angiography in diagnosing SMA syndrome.
- Further evaluation and management by gastroenterologists and surgeons are essential.
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