Abstract
Isolated spontaneous dissection of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is a comparatively rare disease, and symptoms vary from acute to chronic abdominal pain to no symptoms. However, it is difficult to diagnose; there is no consensus about medical treatment and the long-term consequences. Isolated spontaneous dissection of the SMA was believed to be a rare disease that required conventional surgery for treatment; however reports of SMA dissection have increased with the progression of diagnostic imaging, and surgery may not always be required. We reviewed 10 cases of isolated spontaneous dissection of the SMA that we experienced between January 1998 and December 2008. We performed conservative medical treatment with anticoagulants in 5 cases, advised bed rest in 4 cases, and performed endovascular treatment in 1 case. None of the cases needed surgery for treatment. There were 3 cases that required continuous administration of long-term anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents. There were no recurrences in a 4-year average observation period.
