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StatPearls, LLC

  • Abdominal Pain
  • Intestinal Obstruction
  • Nausea
  • Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome
  • Vomiting

Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is a rare but potentially debilitating cause of proximal intestinal obstruction resulting from compression of the third portion of the duodenum between the superior mesenteric artery and the abdominal aorta. Most cases occur after significant weight loss, leading to loss of the mesenteric fat pad and narrowing of the aortomesenteric angle. Patients typically present with postprandial abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, early satiety, and progressive malnutrition, making early recognition essential to prevent serious complications. This activity provides a comprehensive review of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, differential diagnosis, and evidence-based management of SMA syndrome, including nutritional rehabilitation and surgical interventions. Participants will gain practical knowledge to recognize at-risk patients, interpret diagnostic imaging, implement appropriate treatment strategies, coordinate multidisciplinary care, and improve patient outcomes through timely diagnosis and management.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.

Credit types

AAPA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1 creditAMA PRA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1 creditNursingUp to 1 creditPharmacyUp to 1 credit

MOC types

ABS — Accredited CMEUp to 1 pointABPATH — Lifelong LearningUp to 1 pointABTS — Accredited CMEUp to 1 pointABIM — Medical KnowledgeUp to 1 pointABS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1 pointABP — Lifelong Learning and Self-AssessmentUp to 1 pointABTS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1 point

FDA REMS

No

Qualifies for MIPS

No

Target Specialties

Cross-Specialty

Relevant across 7 specialties.

Pricing

Fee varies

This provider typically $49–98

See fees on statpearls.com

Listed by the provider

  • Article / monograph / reference
  • Credit · Up to 1 credit
  • MOC · Up to 1 point
  • Fee varies · this provider typically $49–98
  • Released
    Sep 1, 2026
  • Last day to claim credit
    Sep 1, 2029 3 years left

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