Mesenteric Artery Occlusion (Acute Mesenteric Ischemia)

These flashcards cover key concepts related to Mesenteric Artery Occlusion, including risk factors, clinical features, investigations, and management.

What age group is at higher risk for mesenteric artery occlusion?

Patients older than 60 years.

Which heart condition is associated with mesenteric artery occlusion?

Atrial fibrillation

What peripheral arterial condition is associated with bowel ischemia?

Atherosclerosis

What is a significant pain feature of mesenteric artery occlusion?

Severe periumbilical pain that is out of proportion to physical findings.

• Can cause prostation

What is connectiom with eating in mesenteric artery occlusion?

Fear of eating.

What are the early/ccommon gastrointestinal symptoms of mesenteric artery occlusion other than pain/tenderness?

Profuse vomiting and watery ± bloody diarrhea.

What is a late finding in mesenteric artery occlusion regarding bowel sounds?

Absent bowel sounds.

Features & complications of late/advanced bowel ischemia

Peritonitis

1. Shock (hemodynamic instability and confusion)

2. Absent bowel sounds

3. Tenderness (local/rebound)

4. Rigidity

What imaging investigation is useful if the patient is stable?

CT angiogram.

What blood test that may indicate mesenteric artery occlusion?

Elevated serum lactate.

What is the first step in the management of mesenteric artery occlusion?

Urgent surgical laparotomy.

What two conditions are commonly presented together in mesenteric artery occlusion?

Anxiety and intense central pain.