Robotic Strong's procedure for the treatment of superior mesenteric artery syndrome. Description of surgical technique on occasion of the first reported case in the literature.

BACKROUND: Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMAS) is a rare disorder caused by compression of the third portion of the duodenum by the SMA. Once a conservative approach fails, usual surgical strategies include Duodenojejunostomy and Strong's procedure. The latter avoids potential anastomotic risks and complications. Robotic Strong's procedure (RSP) combines both the benefits of a minimal invasive approach and also enchased robotic accuracy and efficacy.

METHODS

For a young girl who was unsuccessfully treated conservatively, the paper describes the RSP surgical technique. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report in the literature.

RESULTS

Minimal blood loss, short operative time, short hospital stay and early recovery were the short-term benefits. Significant weight gain was achieved three months after the surgery.

CONCLUSION

Based on primary experience, it is suggested that RSP is a very effective alternative in treating SMAS.