When your path to recovery from Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) syndrome includes surgery, understanding what lies ahead can make all the difference. Nearly 90% of SMA syndrome patients experience favorable outcomes after surgical intervention, but the recovery process plays an important role in determining long-term success. 

Whether you've just scheduled your procedure or are already navigating the healing process, this guide will walk you through practical steps to support your body's recovery, minimize complications, and help you return to daily activities with confidence. 

Continue reading to get evidence-based recovery recommendations from the best SMA syndrome surgeon in Los Angeles. 

Understanding Your Surgical Options for SMA Syndrome

Leading gastrointestinal surgeons in Los Angeles typically consider three main approaches when treating SMA syndrome: 

  • The most common procedure, duodenal derotation, creates a new pathway for food by connecting your small intestine to the compressed portion of your duodenum, effectively bypassing the pinched area. 
  • The Strong procedure takes a different approach by repositioning the duodenum to move it away from the compressing artery. 
  • A third option, duodenojejunal bypass, connects your stomach directly to your jejunum, creating an alternate food route. 

Each procedure aims to accomplish the same goal: relieving pressure on your duodenum and restoring normal food passage. It is ideal to work with the best SMA Syndrome surgeon in California, who will recommend procedures based on your specific anatomy and health situation. The ultimate goal is to eliminate the painful symptoms caused by arterial compression.

How to Prepare for SMA Syndrome Recovery

Preparing for your recovery before SMA syndrome surgery will significantly help your recovery process and, in turn, support a successful recovery. For your hospital stay, pack essentials, including comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that won't press against your abdomen, slip-on shoes, basic toiletries, insurance information, and entertainment options like books or a tablet. 

Equally important is preparing your home environment. Set up a recovery area on your main floor to avoid stairs, place frequently needed items within easy reach, stock up on approved foods and clear liquids for your post-surgery diet, and arrange for help with household tasks for at least the first week. Consider preparing and freezing small, easily digestible meals in advance that follow your doctor's nutritional guidelines. Also, gather any prescribed medications and place a small trash can and extra pillows near your recovery space for comfort. 

How and What to Eat After SMA Syndrome Surgery

After SMA syndrome surgery, your eating habits will need to change temporarily to support healing. Initially, you'll receive IV nutrition while your digestive system rests. When your medical team determines you're ready, you'll begin a careful transition to liquid nutrition, then soft foods, and finally, regular meals. 

When you start eating by mouth again, it’s important to remember a few things: 

  • Start with small portions, about half a cup, eaten slowly every two to three hours rather than three larger meals. 
  • Focus on easily digestible options like smoothies, yogurt, pureed soups, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and well-cooked pasta. 
  • Avoid foods that produce gas, like beans and carbonated drinks, and high-fat items that are harder to digest. 
  • Staying hydrated is essential, so aim for at least eight cups of fluid daily from water, herbal tea, and diluted juices. 
  • Keep a food journal to track which foods work best for you, noting any discomfort or GI symptoms. 

Remember that your body needs proper nutrition to heal, so prioritize protein sources like eggs, yogurt, and fish, which help rebuild tissue and strengthen your immune system.

What to Expect During Recovery from SMA Syndrome Surgery

Recovery from SMA syndrome surgery typically takes four to six weeks, though your personal timeline may vary. In the first few days, you'll likely experience some pain, fatigue, and discomfort around your incision, which will gradually improve with proper rest and medication.

Activities and Movement After Surgery

During the first week, focus on gentle movements like short walks around your home, increasing distance slowly each day. You can introduce light household activities by weeks two and three, but avoid lifting anything heavier than ten pounds. Steer clear of activities that strain your abdomen, like bending, twisting, or strenuous exercise, until your surgeon gives approval. 

Expected Post-Surgical Challenges vs. Signs of Complications

Common recovery challenges that are normal and expected after SMA syndrome surgery include:

  • Temporary bloating
  • Altered bowel habits
  • Fatigue
  • Mild weight loss, usually no more than a few pounds

Recognizing Signs of Serious Complications After Surgery

Your follow-up appointments, typically scheduled at two weeks and six weeks post-surgery, are important for assessing your progress and addressing any concerns. In the meantime, don't hesitate to contact your healthcare team between visits if you experience signs of complications, like: 

  • Fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit 
  • Increasing abdominal pain
  • Incision pain or drainage from the incision that smells
  • Difficulty breathing 
  • Unable to keep liquid or small amounts of soft food down

Where to Find the Best SMA Syndrome Surgeon in Los Angeles

For a condition as challenging as SMA syndrome, you need a specialist who offers the critical combination patients need: technical mastery, digestive system specialization, and a genuine understanding of the profound impact this syndrome has on quality of life. At our clinic, you’ll receive cutting-edge care at a state-of-the-art surgical facility, with Dr. Shouhed at the helm of modern techniques and high-definition imaging technology that ensure your successful SMA syndrome surgery.

Dr. Danny Shouhed brings rare expertise to SMA syndrome treatment by combining his specialized gastrointestinal surgical training with advanced robotic techniques that maximize surgery success and minimize recovery time. 

Ready to get SMA syndrome treatment from the best SMA surgeon in Los Angeles?