Prevention of intestinal infarction resulting from mesenteric arterial occlusive disease

We studied 25 patients with acute intestinal ischemia resulting from arteriosclerotic mesenteric occlusion requiring surgical exploration. Their symptoms were inconspicuous but diagnostically significant. Progressive loss of body weight and symptoms mimicking peptic ulcer disease or cholecystitis were consistent findings. Delay and oversight in the clinical diagnosis resulted in an 80 per cent mortality. We stressed that awareness of possible mesenteric arteriosclerosis in patients with ill-defined gastrointestinal symptoms and weight loss is critical to diagnosis, and early aortography done in the lateral position will define superior mesenteric arterial lesions. Early surgical corrective measures can then be instituted to remedy this critical and often fatal condition.