Surgical approach to the superior mesenteric artery by the Kocher Maneuver: anatomy study and clinical applications.

ABSTRACT

The Kocher maneuver allows approaching the origin of the superior mesenteric artery. This affords adequate exposure for procedures such as embolectomy or mesenteric arterial reimplantation into the aorta. Because of its simplicity, this technique may be better than the classical interpancreaticoduodenal or splenopancreatic methods. The results of 11 cadaveric dissections and two surgical operations for mesenteric ischemia using this technique are reported.