The proximal mesenteric flap: a method for closing large mesenteric defects in jejunal atresia

In selected patients with jejunal atresia, closure of the associated large mesenteric defect remains a technical problem. A case of jejunal atresia is reported in which a segment of dysfunctional proximal jejunum was resected and its mesentery retained, creating a flap of mesenteric tissue that was used to close a large defect. This technique allowed the closure of the mesenteric defect with a decreased chance of injury or kinking of the tenuous distal mesenteric vessels, improved orientation and stabilization of the distal bowel, and, theoretically, improved blood flow to the distal segment.