SMAS: a Prospective Study in a Single Institution (NCT03416647) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
SMAS: a Prospective Study in a Single Institution
Italy39 participantsStarted 2008-10
Plain-language summary
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMAS) is a rare cause of duodenal obstruction, that should be suspected in cases of chronic, refractory upper digestive symptoms. Between 2008 and 2016, 39 consecutive patients with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms and a diagnosis of SMAS were prospectively included in the study, in order to describe their demographic, clinical and outcome features. All patients underwent duodenojejunostomy.
Who can participate
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria (at least 2 of the following):
* severe and frequent upper digestive symptoms (occurring at least once a week), associated to poor quality of life and refractory response to medical treatment;
* a condition of underweight (BMI \<18.5 kg/m2) associated with difficulty eating;
* severe complications of SMAS (e.g. gastric perforation, acute pancreatitis, aspiration pneumonia);
* suggestive findings of SMAS at barium swallow;
* diagnostic aortomesenteric angle and distance at CT/MR angiography.
Exclusion Criteria:
* inability to provide the informed consent;
* malignancies;
* bowel motility disorders;
* severe psychiatric illness;
* pregnancy;
* impossibility to perform the required diagnostic workup.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.