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World J Gastroenterol. May 28, 2006; 12(20): 3243-3247
Published online May 28, 2006. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v12.i20.3243
Update in management of mesenteric ischemia
Robert W Chang, John B Chang, Walter E Longo
Robert W Chang, John B Chang, Walter E Longo, Department of Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven 06510, United States
Author contributions: All authors contributed equally to the work.
Correspondence to: Walter Edwin Longo, Professor, Department of Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven 06510, United States. walter.longo@yale.edu
Telephone: +1-203-7852616 Fax: +1-203-7852615
Received: March 29, 2006
Revised: April 7, 2006
Accepted: April 18, 2006
Published online: May 28, 2006
Abstract

Mesenteric ischemia disorders are precipitated by a circulation insufficiency event that deprives one or several abdominal organs of adequate respiration to meet metabolic demands. Although mesenteric ischemia occurs infrequently, the mortality rate is from 60% to 100%, depending on the source of obstruction. The successful outcome is dependent upon a high index of suspicion and prompt management. We briefly review the pathophysiology and presentation of the various ischemic entities and review the current state of the art in diagnosis and treatment. Despite advances in both diagnosis and treatment, prompt diagnosis and supportive care remain critical for successful outcome. New imaging techniques, endovascular therapy and emerging research may improve our approach to this deadly condition.

Keywords: Mesenteric ischemia, Duplex ultrasonography, Plasma D-dimer, Computed tomography