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article · Journal of Rare Diseases

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome: a rare pediatric syndrome with limited surgical options in LMICs — a case report from Muhimbili National Hospital

In plain language

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome is an uncommon condition capable of causing significant morbidity and mortality from small bowel obstruction, particularly among paediatric patients such as infants. In low- and middle-income countries, surgical treatment options are frequently constrained, and clear management guidelines remain absent. Clinical documentation demonstrates that performing a gastrojejunostomy alongside a Braun anastomosis can successfully achieve the intended outcome for treating this condition within low-resource environments. This operational approach offers a viable surgical alternative where resource limitations typically restrict available care strategies.

Key takeaways

  • Superior mesenteric artery syndrome causes severe morbidity and mortality linked to small bowel obstruction, particularly in infants.
  • Low- and middle-income countries face limited surgical options and lack specific management guidelines for the condition.
  • A gastrojejunostomy with Braun anastomosis provided an adequate desired outcome for treating this syndrome in a low-resource setting.

Why it matters

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome is a dangerous condition that presents severe risks to young children. Demonstrating that a gastrojejunostomy with Braun anastomosis yields effective results provides clinical teams in low-resource environments with an actionable, accessible surgical pathway to treat life-threatening bowel obstructions.

Commercialisation angle

The abstract outlines a clinical surgical approach rather than a proprietary product or technology. While it informs hospital surgical protocols and technique selection for medical teams operating in low-resource healthcare settings, the abstract does not indicate an application pathway for commercialisation.

AI-generated from the published abstract. Always read the original work before citing.

Abstract

Abstract Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is an uncommon condition that can lead to significant mortality and morbidity due to small bowel obstruction, especially in infants. There is lack of specific management guideline with limited surgical options in LMICs. The index case shows that gastrojejunostomy procedure with Braun anastomosis can provide an adequate desired outcome in the management of SMA syndrome in low-resourced settings.

Research topics

  • Vascular anomalies and interventions
  • Renal and Vascular Pathologies
  • Central Venous Catheters and Hemodialysis

Sustainable Development Goals

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DOI: 10.1007/s44162-025-00095-w

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