Interventional Radiology in Treating Acute Mesenteric Arterial Occlusion: A Narrative Review

Acute mesenteric arterial occlusion, resulting from impaired blood flow in the superior mesenteric artery, is classified into embolism and thrombosis; both conditions lead to rapid intestinal ischemia, with a high mortality rate of >30% within 30 days. A multidisciplinary treatment approach, including prompt revascularization, necrotic intestinal tract resection, intensive postoperative care, and recurrence prevention, is crucial for managing acute mesenteric arterial occlusion. Recent meta-analyses have indicated that endovascular treatments result in lower bowel resection and mortality rates than open revascularization. As a minimally invasive treatment option, endovascular therapy can become prevalent in the aging population. Interventional radiologists who provide diagnostic imaging and endovascular procedures must understand the disease and play a central role in the treatment team.