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Superior mesenteric artery syndrome

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Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome (also known as Wilkie’s syndrome, chronic duodenal ileus, or cast syndrome) occurs when the third portion of the duodenum is compressed between the SMA and the aorta. The major risk factors for development of SMA syndrome are rapid weight loss and surgical correction of spinal deformities. The clinical presentation of SMA syndrome is variable and nonspecific, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and weight loss. The diagnosis is based on radiographic findings of duodenal compression by the SMA. The treatment of SMA syndrome is aimed at the precipitating factor, which usually is related to weight loss. Therefore, conservative therapy with nutritional supplementation is the initial approach, and surgery is reserved for those who do not respond to hyperalimentation.

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  1. Department of Medicine, Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas, 8230 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 610, Dallas, TX, 75231, USA

    Rajeev Jain

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  1. Rajeev Jain
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Correspondence to Rajeev Jain.

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Jain, R. Superior mesenteric artery syndrome. Curr Treat Options Gastro 10, 24–27 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11938-007-0053-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11938-007-0053-8

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