Superior mesenteric artery syndrome following small bowel resection.

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome is a rare cause of mechanical intestinal obstruction. It results from compression of the third part of the duodenum between the superior mesenteric artery and the aorta. It has been described in association with a variety of clinical conditions, including prolonged supine immobilization, application of a body cast, ileal pouch-anal anastomosis, abdominal aortic aneurysm, spinal surgery and severe weight loss.