Evaluation of mesenteric and renal vascular disease

Accurate evaluation of the mesenteric and renal circulations by methods other than angiography has been difficult. Duplex ultrasound scanning has recently been applied to these areas and has potentially important clinical applications. In the renal circulation it has use in selected patients with hypertension for detection of renal artery stenosis. It also can be used to assess the technical adequacy and long-term results of renal revascularization and may be helpful in the evaluation of renal transplants. In the mesenteric circulation duplex ultrasound is useful in evaluating patients with suspected chronic mesenteric insufficiency, in the serial assessment of mesenteric revascularization, in the evaluation of portal hypertension both prior to and following portosystemic shunting, and in the assessment of hemodynamic aspects of gastrointestinal physiology.