Evaluation of suspected mesenteric ischemia: efficacy of radiologic studies

Mesenteric ischemia is a common problem with protean causes. In patients with suspected mesenteric ischemia, early recognition of ischemic bowel and prompt management are crucial and directly connected to patients' prognosis. Because of its cross-sectional capability offering direct visualization of both enteric and perienteric changes, CT has become an essential diagnostic tool in these clinical settings. Although imaging features in mesenteric ischemia often are relatively nonspecific, understanding of the pathophysiology and clinical features of this disorder in various conditions, and radiologic findings, help the radiologist recognize the ischemic bowel and arrive at a correct diagnosis.