SMA Syndrome after Corrective Surgery of Thoracic Kyphoscoliosis: A Case Report / 대한척추외과학회지

ABSTRACT

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is a rare condition that results from an extrinsic compression of the third portion of the duodenum, between the SMA and the aorta. The symptoms for the condition consist of abdominal pain and recurrent vomiting, caused by ileus, and can be followed by an electrolyte imbalance and nutrient deficiency. SMA syndrome can follow surgical correction of a spinal deformity, as the aorta migrates forward as the degree of the lumbar lordosis increases, and the retroperitoneal fat tissue decreases, during perioperative abstinence. Any symptoms suggestive of SMA syndrome, after correction of a spinal deformity, should be investigated, as SMA syndrome carries a prolonged hospital stay, with the potential for mortality. An 11 year 10 month old boy, who underwent correction for thoracic kyphoscoliosis, developed postoperative abdominal distension, pain and bilious vomiting. An upper gastrointestinal contrast study revealed SMA syndrome, which required a laparotomy.