Imaging of the Inferior Mesenteric Vasculature

Area of Science:

• Vascular Imaging
• Gastrointestinal Radiology
• Abdominal Imaging

Background:

• The inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) and inferior mesenteric vein (IMV) are vital for distal colon and rectal vascular supply and drainage.
• These vessels are often overlooked in abdominal cross-sectional imaging due to their smaller size compared to other mesenteric vessels.
• Understanding their anatomy and potential abnormalities is crucial for diagnosing various gastrointestinal and vascular conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of the normal and abnormal appearances of the IMA and IMV on cross-sectional imaging.
• To highlight the diagnostic significance of IMA and IMV findings in various clinical scenarios.
• To emphasize the role of these vessels in collateral circulation and as indicators of adjacent pathology.

Main Methods:

• Review of embryologic features, normal anatomy, and anatomic variants of the IMA and IMV.
• Illustration of diverse IMA and IMV abnormalities using case examples, including aneurysms, stenosis, occlusion, and arteriovenous malformations.
• Discussion of the IMA and IMV's role in collateral vasculature and interpretation of associated imaging findings.

Main Results:

• Detailed description of normal and abnormal IMA and IMV imaging features.
• Presentation of various vascular pathologies affecting the IMA and IMV.
• Exploration of diagnostic clues provided by the IMA and IMV in conditions like mesenteric venous gas and bowel volvulus.

Conclusions:

• Radiologists should pay closer attention to the IMA and IMV during abdominal imaging evaluations.
• Recognition of IMA and IMV abnormalities and their associated findings can significantly aid in diagnosis.
• This review serves as a valuable reference for understanding these often-neglected but important mesenteric vessels.