Superior mesenteric artery syndrome and its ramifications

Abstract

The superior mesenteric artery extends anteriorly and inferiorly off the aorta at the level of the first lumbar vertebrae. The duodenal sweep and left renal vein are located in the aorto-mesenteric angle space. A decrease from the normal angle may compress these two structures. The case presented here discusses a unique patient with significant compression of the third portion of the duodenum and possible enlargement of the proximal left renal vein as these two structures cross the aorto-mesenteric angle.