[Definition and treatment of superior mesenteric artery revascularization and dissection-associated diarrhea (SMARD syndrome) in Germany].

Background: The superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is exposed and dissected during pancreatic resections (PR) and mesenteric vascular surgery (MVS). The resulting damage of the surrounding extrinsic and intrinsic vegetative nerve plexus can lead to a temporary or treatment refractory diarrhea.

Objective: This study aimed to provide an overview of the current status of SMA revascularization and dissection-associated diarrhea (SMARD syndrome) in Germany.

Material and methods: After a selective literature search (SLS) on the frequency of newly developed postoperative diarrhea after PR and MVS, an online survey was initiated.

Results: The SLS (n = 4) confirmed that newly developed postoperative diarrhea is a frequent complication after preparation for revascularization (RV) or dissection (DIS) of the SMA (incidence approximately 62%). Treatment refractive courses were relatively uncommon with 14%. Out of 159 centers 54 took part in the survey and 63% stated that they carried out an SMA RV/DIS during PR or MVS. The average PR per center was 47 in 2018 and 49 in 2019. The average MVS was 5 per center in both years and on average 3 patients suffered from SMARD syndrome.

Conclusion: This survey recorded the current status of the SMARD syndrome in Germany for the first time. So far there are no recommendations for the treatment of such a diarrhea. The results show that initially a symptomatic treatment should be carried out. Due to the complexity of the pathophysiology, causal treatment approaches have not yet been developed.