Management of Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia

Abstract

Progression of atherosclerotic arterial occlusive disease leads to the stenosis of the mesenteric vessels. Chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI) develops when the degree of mesenteric stenosis reaches a critical level whereby the blood supply cannot meet the metabolic demands of the intestines. Patients typically present with a complaint of postprandial abdominal pain and weight loss. CMI is believed to be precursor to a major intestinal infarction event. Delay in diagnosis can lead to an increase in mortality as CMI is believed to be a precursor to intestinal infarction. Once the diagnosis is established, the stenosis can be corrected using both open surgical and endovascular techniques.