[Ischemic colitis]

Based on experience with 12 patients with ischaemic colitis observed in 1968-1992 the following conclusions can be drawn: ischaemic colitis is not as rare as assumed and its rising incidence must be foreseen. The clinical picture is not typical, but when suitable diagnostic methods are used, it can be diagnosed in a large number of cases. In non-complicated cases the prospects of conservative treatment are good. Surgery is associated, with regard to the age of the majority of patients, with a considerable risk. Therefore decisions on surgery should be made by the surgeon in cooperation with the gastroenterologist.