[Cholesterol crystal embolization, a rare cause of postoperative ischemic colitis]

An ischemic colitis of the descending Colon and Sigma in 3 patients following aorto-iliacal reconstruction was caused by embolism of cholesterol crystals. In all cases the stump pressure of the inferior mesenteric artery measured more than 40 Torr as an empiric value. Therefore a good collateral blood flow could be expected. Nevertheless a malperfusion of the left Colon occurred. These cases of postoperative ischemic colitis were caused by multiple cholesterol crystal emboli in the arterioles of the colon descendens and Sigma. The mobilisation and embolism of arteriosclerotic material during aorto-iliac reconstruction must be responsible for the unfortunate event. Awareness of a bowel ischemia following abdominal aortic surgery and immediate endoscopic control should lead to an early diagnosis and a higher survival rate. A decision to redo operation with left hemicolectomy is required at an early stage.