Laparoscopic duodeno-jejunostomy, a minimaly invasive surgery in the management of Wilkie syndrome: a case report

Abstract The superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS), also known as Wilkie’s syndrome, is a duodenal obstruction caused by the compression of the third part of the duodenum between the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and the aorta. This condition often arises due to the disappearance of perivascular fatty tissue, as well as advanced stages of malnutrition and weight loss. Patients typically experience symptoms such as vomiting, fullness, and postprandial epigastric pain. While initial management involves conservative measures, surgery becomes necessary if symptoms do not improve. Here, we present the case of a 25-year-old man diagnosed with SMAS. Despite undergoing conservative management for three months, the symptoms did not regress. Subsequently, a laparoscopic duodeno-jejunostomy was performed, resulting in an uneventful postoperative period, disappearance of vomiting and epigastric pain, and a weight gain of 14 kg after one year.