[Arteriomesenteric duodenal compression].

Arteriomesenteric obstruction of the duodenum is a rare lesion seen in abdominal surgery. By vascular compression passage is blocked in the lower part of the duodenum. Two forms are described, an inborn and an acquired one, both of which result from a decrease in the aortomesenterial angle. While the acute form of disease causes a complete occlusion, clinically shown as ileus, the chronic intermittent form presents an uncharacteristic upper abdominal complex of symptoms. The diagnostic procedure is an X-ray passage series of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Final diagnostic assurance should be assumed by angiographical determination of the superior mesenteric artery and its angle of branching from the aorta. Retrocolic duodenojejunostomy has proved to be the most satisfactory surgical treatment for this lesion. Our studies demonstrate the value of surgical treatment of arteriomesenteric obstruction of the duodenum in 14 cases.