acute mesenteric ischaemia Flashcards
cause of acute mesenteric ischaemia
embolism resulting in occlusion of an artery that supplies the small bowel for example : superior mesenteric artery
risk factor for acute mesenteric ischaemia
AF
symptoms of acute mesenteric ischaemia
sudden onset
abdo pain
management of acute mesenteric ischaemia
immediate laparotomy
complications of acute mesenteric ischaemia
peritonitis
sepsis
what is ischaemic colitis
acute but transient compromise in the blood flow to the large bowel. This may lead to inflammation, ulceration and haemorrhage
where does ischaemic colitis commonly affect
splenic flexure
+ watershed areas
ivx for ischaemic colitis
thumbprinting’ may be seen on abdominal x-ray due to mucosal oedema/haemorrhage
Name the arterial supply to the foregut, midgut and hindgut.
Foregut - celiac trunk; midgut - superior mesenteric artery;
hindgut - inferior mesenteric artery.
What acid-base disturbance is commonly associated with acute
mesenteric ischaemia?
metabolic acidosis
Give two other abnormalities that may be found on blood tests.
Raised W C C , raised lactate, raised H b (due to
haem oconcentration), raised am ylase.
What is the gold standard for imaging in suspected acute
mesenteric ischaemia?
angiography
What are the aims of surgery for this condition?
resection and revascularisation
Give one essential component of the initial management prior to
surgery.
fluids, abx, heparin, analgesia
