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.
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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:
Symptoms of chronic mesenteric ischemia include:
Your doctor 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:
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.
Your doctor will insert a balloon-tipped catheter inside the blocked artery at the point of the blockage.
Once the catheter is in place, your doctor will inflate and deflate the balloon. As the balloon inflates, it flatten the plaque against the wall of the artery, leaving it open.
To make sure the artery stays open, your doctor may place a stent. A stent is a metal-mesh tube that acts as a scaffold by pressing against the artery walls, keeping the artery open.
An option when angioplasty is ineffective or when more than one blood vessel is blocked.
Increases blood flow from the aorta to the blood vessels, supplying the bowel beyond the areas of narrowing.
Your vascular surgeon uses a blood vessel from another location to create a detour around the blockage by attaching one end to the blocked artery above the blockage and the other end below the blockage.
Blood can flow through the newly placed vessel, bypassing the blockage.
Symptoms typically improve immediately and you will receive close follow-up care through regular ultrasounds.
Last reviewed by a UPMC medical professional on 2024-10-01.
