Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08

Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMAS) is classified under the ICD-10-CM code K31.6, which covers "other diseases of the stomach and duodenum," specifically including vascular compression of the duodenum. In the older ICD-9-CM coding system, Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome was typically categorized under 537.89, representing other specified disorders of the stomach and duodenum. What is Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome? Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome is a rare digestive disorder that occurs when the third portion of the duodenum is compressed between the abdominal aorta and the overlying superior mesenteric artery.

3 people with Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.

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ICD10 code of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome and ICD9 code

ICD-10 and ICD-9 codes for Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome, with classification details for clinicians, coders and patients.

ICD9 and ICD10 codes of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome

Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMAS) is classified under the ICD-10-CM code K31.6, which covers "other diseases of the stomach and duodenum," specifically including vascular compression of the duodenum. In the older ICD-9-CM coding system, Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome was typically categorized under 537.89, representing other specified disorders of the stomach and duodenum.



What is Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome?


Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome is a rare digestive disorder that occurs when the third portion of the duodenum is compressed between the abdominal aorta and the overlying superior mesenteric artery. This compression happens when the mesenteric fat pad, which normally cushions the duodenum, is depleted. Our community at DiseaseMaps.org currently supports 380 people living with Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome, highlighting the importance of shared experiences in navigating this complex condition.



How is Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome diagnosed?


Diagnosis of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome often requires advanced imaging to visualize the narrowed aortomesenteric angle. Clinicians typically look for the following diagnostic markers:



  • Aortomesenteric angle: A reduction of the angle between the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery to less than 22–28 degrees.

  • Aortomesenteric distance: A distance between these two vessels of less than 8–10 mm.

  • Duodenal obstruction: Visible dilation of the proximal duodenum with a sharp cutoff at the level of the artery during imaging.



What are the primary treatment approaches for Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome?


Initial management for Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome usually focuses on conservative measures to restore the retroperitoneal fat pad. This includes nutritional rehabilitation, such as high-calorie oral supplementation or post-pyloric enteral feeding. If conservative efforts fail to resolve the symptoms of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome, surgical intervention, such as a duodenojejunostomy, may be necessary to bypass the obstruction.



Next steps



  • Consult with a gastroenterologist or a vascular surgeon specializing in rare anatomical compressions.

  • Join the 380 members at DiseaseMaps.org to connect with others who understand the challenges of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome.

  • Keep a detailed food and symptom diary to share with your medical team to track progress during nutritional therapy.



Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.



References



  • National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)

  • Orphanet: Portal for rare diseases and orphan drugs

  • National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) - PubMed Central

  • DiseaseMaps.org community data resources

Author: DiseaseMaps Editorial Team
Reviewed against authoritative medical sources (NIH GARD, Orphanet, OMIM)
Last updated: 2026-05-08
Medical disclaimer: This information does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before making health decisions.
Source: DiseaseMaps.org
4 answers
Not sure I will ask my doctor.

Posted May 28, 2018 by Alexis 2500
I was not able to find information on this topic

Posted Mar 14, 2020 by Macy Mae 2550
ICD10 is the code used for SMAS diagnosis and for reimbursement purposes

Posted Jan 28, 2021 by Babypay1 2650

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World map of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome

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Stories of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome

SUPERIOR MESENTERIC ARTERY SYNDROME STORIES
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome stories
My name is Shawn and I live in Southern Oregon. I have the congenital form of SMAS. I didn't notice the changes going on back in 1991. It was my Wife that pointed out to me that I would often wake around 3-4am and vomit, very violently. Then I would ...
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome stories
January 2011...I was rushed to hospital as 10 inches of my bowel had died, I had a bowel resection and 12 days later I was sent home, but within a day or too I was getting awful pain in my stomach after eating or drinking, being sick, no pain killers...
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome stories
My name is Michelle and Alecia is my daughter.  Alecia got sick in April of 2009 and was diagnosed with gastroparesis a few months later.  It wasn't until March 1, 2011that she was diagnosed with SMAS.  She had her Lap Duodenojejunostomy done on J...
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome stories
Growing up I was a happy healthy child until I hit my teens !! It started with ovarian cysts and endometriosis which we. Managed to get it under control once I was put on a birth control shot. Then in 2004 it wasn't feeling too good again to find out...
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome stories
After months of being told its a stomach virus ..i sought outba second opinion.. she was seen with gi and what they thoight was either Crohn's disease or her  celiac acting up  instead found a clear cut case of Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome.....

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