SMA syndrome is a rare disease that is often misdiagnosed with only 300 registered cases worldwide

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 27 February 2019:  Zulekha Hospital successfully operated on 27 year-old female Fatimah who suffered from Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMAS) which is a rare gastrointestinal tract disease that causes chronic pain, vomiting, full body weakness and weight loss. Fatimah underwent MRI, CT and X-ray scans and has previously been diagnosed for years with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). However, recently at Zulekha Hospital Fatima discovered that her actual condition had been overlooked due to its rarity.

SMA is a digestive condition that occurs when the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) is compressed between two arteries. To date, there have only been 300 cases registered worldwide. This uncommon illness can cause patients to suffer from rapid weight loss, constant vomiting and an inability to ingest solid food.

“When I started being tested for gastric conditions five years ago, my results were negative, yet my condition remained the same. I also discovered that my gallbladder was infected and had one polyp and so a cholecystectomy was performed. After the cholecystectomy my symptoms worsened. Gradually, I started losing weight and eventually I had difficulty breathing and eating, so I came to Zulekha Hospital and met Dr. Nazim Alrifai, who sent me for a CT Scan of my abdominal vessels and it was through these tests that he discovered my real problem ” said Fatimah.

After the diagnosis of the rare disease, the patient's condition did not improve using traditional conservative treatments, therefore, Zuekha Hospital performed a rare surgical procedure that requires experience in this field.

Dr. Nazim Alrifai, Specialist General, Laparoscopic and Bariatric Surgeon said: “Once the pre-anaesthesia check-up was conducted, we made sure that the patient's severe malnutrition would not interfere with the procedure. The surgery was performed to create a link between two sections of the intestines - the duodenum and jejunum which then bypassed the pressure of the artery. The patient is now making a full recovery and is able to go back to enjoying her normal life.”

The operation took two hours to conduct due to the level of accuracy required and was performed laparoscopically. The patient is still being monitored at the hospital although she is discharged, and is gradually improving.