[Nonocclusive ischemic enteropathy--a rare cause of ileus]

The cause for a nonocclusive ischemic enteropathy seems to be a low cardiac output syndrome. There are often signs of a paralytic intestinal obstruction. Parameters of the blood chemistry offer no conclusive data. The angiogram of the mesenteric vessels demonstrates extensive arterial vasoconstriction as well as an obstructed venous outflow. Experimental findings disclose that this venous obstruction may be a result of an ischemic contracture in the course of a low flow state. This rigor initiates finally a thrombosis of the venoles. The rigor can be effectually mastered by energy-rich compounds.