Acute mesenteric ischemia

Acute mesenteric ischemia may result from mesenteric arterial occlusion (embolism or thrombosis), mesenteric venous occlusion, and nonocclusive processes. Because the duration of the ischemic episode has the most profound effect on outcome, a heightened clinical suspicion must be maintained in these patients at risk. Once the diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia is confirmed, prompt revascularization is the only opportunity to salvage these critically ill patients.