Selective minimally invasive strategy for acute superior mesenteric artery obstruction

Acute mesenteric artery obstruction is a severe cause of acute mesenteric ischemia, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. However, there is limited guidance on choosing between traditional and minimally invasive techniques comprehensively. This study introduces a selective, minimally invasive strategy designed to improve the survival and prognosis of patients with acute superior mesenteric artery obstruction.

In this prospective, single-arm trial conducted between 2020 and 2023, patients with acute mesenteric ischemia due to acute superior mesenteric artery obstruction were enrolled. A total of 42 patients were included, meeting the predetermined sample size. The primary outcome was the 30-day chronic intestinal failure (CIF)-free survival rate. Based on an algorithm incorporating preoperative radiographic findings, physical signs, and laboratory markers, patients were assigned to one of three therapeutic pathways: traditional laparotomy with thrombectomy, laparoscopy combined with endovascular therapy, or endovascular therapy alone.

The CIF-free survival rates at 30 days and 2 years were 71% (30/42) and 60%, respectively. Short-term mortality, including 30-day and in-hospital mortality, was 11.9%, indicating an improvement compared with historical cohorts. The cumulative mortality rates at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years were 26%, 32%, and 32%, respectively. The primary and assisted patency rates at 1 year were 90% and 97%, respectively. Transition to laparotomy was required in 43% of patients undergoing laparoscopic exploration. Improved blood supply was observed in 73% of the patients who underwent two laparoscopic procedures (15 patients), and bowel resection was avoided in 40% of cases. The median durations of hospitalization and intensive care unit stay were 19 days (interquartile range, 11-31 days) and 2 days (interquartile range, 0-6 days), respectively.

This selective, minimally invasive strategy for managing acute mesenteric ischemia demonstrated high 30-day CIF-free survival rates and reduced short-term mortality. These findings suggest the potential advantages of this approach in improving outcomes for patients with acute mesenteric ischemia.