Chronic mesenteric ischemia, also referred to as intestinal ischemia occurs when plaque builds up in the major arteries that supply blood to the small intestine or small bowel. When left untreated, the blockage can decrease blood flow so much that the tissues in the intestines die.
At UPMC, experts from the Division of Vascular Surgery handle the treatment of chronic mesenteric ischemia.
To request an appointment, contact the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute:
Chronic mesenteric ischemia is a condition in which plaque builds up in the major arteries — including the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries — that supply blood to the small intestine or small bowel.
These blood clots in the small intestine and bowels can lead to:
Left untreated over time, blockages can decrease blood flow so much that the tissues in your intestines die.
Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) causes chronic mesenteric ischemia.
Healthy arteries are flexible and smooth and allow blood to flow freely through them.
In atherosclerosis, fatty deposits and calcium can build up along the inner artery walls and form plaque. Over time, the buildup of plaque causes the arteries to narrow. This limits the amount of oxygen-rich blood that flows to the intestines.
Factors that increase your risk of chronic mesenteric ischemia include:
UPMC’s Vascular Surgery Division has access to the latest minimally invasive treatments for chronic mesenteric ischemia. We take a team based approach and tailor our treatment plan to your unique circumstances.
A leader in the treatment of chronic mesenteric ischemia, UPMC is actively engaged in research in an effort to improve outcomes for our complex vascular patients.
To make an appointment with a vascular surgeon at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute, complete an appointment request form or call 1-855-876-2484 (UPMC-HVI).
UPMC Patient Education Materials:
Symptoms of chronic mesenteric ischemia include:
Your doctor at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute may perform several tests to rule out other conditions. In addition, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask you questions about your medical history.
Tests used to diagnose chronic mesenteric ischemia include:
To make an appointment with a vascular surgeon at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute, complete an appointment request form or call 1-855-876-2484 (UPMC-HVI).
The goal of chronic mesenteric ischemia treatment is to restore blood flow to your intestines before damage occurs.
Making changes to your diet with the help of a dietitian may be the only treatment you need.
If diet changes do not help — and symptoms cause weight loss, long-term abdominal pain, and even food fear — your doctor at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute may recommend minimally invasive or open surgical treatments to increase blood flow to your intestines.
Vascular surgeons at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute offer treatment for chronic mesenteric ischemia.
To make an appointment with a vascular surgeon, complete an appointment request form or call 1-855-876-2484 (UPMC-HVI).
The UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute offers education information and videos about chronic mesenteric ischemia and other heart and vascular diseases and treatments.
Many people find these resources helpful in answering their questions about their condition and preparing them for their procedure or diagnostic test.
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