Mesenteric ischaemia

Question 1

Which 3 branches of the abdominal aorta supply the abdominal organs?

Answer 1

• Coeliac artery
• Superior mesenteric artery
• Inferior mesenteric artery

Question 2

The stomach, first part of the duodenum, biliary system, liver, pancreas and spleen are collectively known as the “foregut” - these organs are supplied by which branch of the abdominal aorta?

Answer 2

Coeliac artery

Question 3

The distal part of the duodenum to the first half of the transverse colon are known as the “midgut” - this is supplied by which branch of the abdominal aorta?

Answer 3

Superior mesenteric artery

Question 4

The second half of the transverse colon to the rectum is known as the “hindgut” - this is supplied by which branch of the abdominal aorta?

Answer 4

Inferior mesenteric artery

Question 5

Chronic mesenteric ischaemia is the result of…

Answer 5

Atherosclerosis

Question 6

Acute mesenteric ischaemia is the result of…

Answer 6

Thrombus

Question 7

Acute mesenteric ischaemia presents with…

Answer 7

Acute and severe generalised abdominal pain (pain is “disproportionate” to examination findings)

Question 8

Describe the diagnostic investigation of acute mesenteric ischaemia

Answer 8

Contrast CT

Question 9

Blood gas may reveal…

Answer 9

• Raised lactate
• Metabolic acidosis

(due to ischaemia)

Question 10

Describe the management of acute mesenteric ischaemia

Answer 10

Urgent surgery