Mesenteric ischemia is a condition that occurs when there is reduced blood flow to the small intestine, leading to tissue damage and potentially life-threatening complications. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including blood clots, blockages in the arteries supplying the small intestine, and vasoconstriction (narrowing of the blood vessels) due to medications or other underlying health conditions.

Symptoms of mesenteric ischemia can include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If left untreated, it can lead to bowel infarction (tissue death) and sepsis (a potentially life-threatening infection).

Diagnosis of mesenteric ischemia involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as imaging studies (such as CT or MRI) and angiography (a procedure that involves injecting dye into the arteries to identify blockages).

Treatment of mesenteric ischemia typically involves urgent surgery or angioplasty to remove blockages in the arteries and restore blood flow to the small intestine. In some cases, medication to improve blood flow or antibiotics to treat infection may also be necessary. Recovery from mesenteric ischemia can be challenging and may require extensive support and rehabilitation.

Both acute and chronic mesenteric ischemia are caused by a decrease in blood flow to the small intestine. Acute mesenteric ischemia is most commonly caused by a blood clot in the main mesenteric artery. The blood clot often originates in the heart. The chronic form is most commonly caused by a buildup of plaque that narrows the arteries.

If a blood clot causes a sudden loss of blood flow to the small intestine, you might require immediate surgery to treat your mesenteric ischemia. Mesenteric ischemia that develops over time might be treated with a procedure that uses a balloon to open the narrowed area.

A mesh tube (stent) might be placed in the narrowed area. Mesenteric ischemia can also be treated via open surgery through an incision.