Multidisciplinary approach to a complex duodenal obstruction: From duodenal atresia to superior mesenteric artery syndrome

We present a 21yo female with a nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Her history was remarkable for duodenal atresia repair as an infant. Following extensive evaluation, she was found to have progressive dilation of the proximal duodenum and loss of motility without obstruction (megaduodenum) which eventually lead to substantial weight loss resulting in superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome. Given her symptomatic presentation, she was offered surgery and underwent a lateral duodenal tapering procedure and division of the ligament of Treitz and duodenal derotation (Strong procedure). Through the collaborative efforts of gastroenterology, pediatric surgery, radiology, and acute care surgery, she now has excellent functional status, has gained weight, and is asymptomatic. This case serves as an important example that congenital anomalies are a lifelong consideration when caring for patients