Mesenteric Ischemia

Mesenteric ischemia, also known as mesenteric vascular disease, is caused by reduced blood flow to the tissue that lines the abdomen and supplies blood to the intestines. This condition can be caused by the sudden blockage or gradual narrowing of the mesenteric arteries, leading to inadequate oxygen and nutrient supply to the intestines.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications, such as bowel infarction and sepsis. Understanding the symptoms and seeking medical attention for suspected mesenteric ischemia is vital to maintain proper intestinal function.

Mesenteric Ischemia Q & A

What is mesenteric ischemia?

Mesenteric ischemia, also known as mesenteric vascular disease, refers to a condition characterized by reduced blood flow to the tissues that line the abdomen and provides blood supply to the intestines. This inadequate blood flow through the mesenteric arteries leads to ischemia – or insufficient oxygen and nutrient supply – and damage to the intestines. There are two types, acute and chronic mesenteric ischemia. Acute mesenteric ischemia is a sudden and severe form that requires immediate medical attention, while chronic mesenteric ischemia develops gradually over time due to narrowing or stenosis of the mesenteric arteries.
Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, imaging studies (such as CT angiography or mesenteric angiography), and sometimes invasive procedures like mesenteric arteriography or exploratory laparotomy.

What are the symptoms of mesenteric artery stenosis?

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of mesenteric artery stenosis that occurs. The most common symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, bloody stool, more frequent bowel movements, unintended weight loss, and tenderness of the abdomen. For patients experiencing chronic mesenteric artery stenosis, abdominal pain is more likely to occur within 30 minutes to 1 hour after eating a meal. Sudden and intense pain may be a sign of acute mesenteric artery stenosis, which requires immediate medical attention.

How is mesenteric artery stenosis treated?

Treatment for mesenteric ischemia aims to restore blood flow to the affected area and may involve a combination of medical management, endovascular procedures (such as angioplasty or stenting), or surgical interventions (such as bypass surgery or bowel resection). Prompt diagnosis and intervention are essential to prevent tissue death, sepsis, and other life-threatening conditions.