Computed Tomography Imaging of Acute Mesenteric Ischemia for Interventional Radiology

Abstract

Acute mesenteric ischemia is a life-threatening condition. A comprehensive approach involving a multidisciplinary team to review patient background, clinical history, physical examination, laboratory data, and imaging examination for respective diagnosis of superior mesenteric arterial occlusion, nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia, and superior mesenteric venous occlusion is essential. The most important imaging modality is computed tomography, which is used for diagnosis and for directing therapeutic strategy (e.g., endovascular revascularization, surgical bowel resection, or conservative management). Computed tomography image findings can support triaging of irreversible transmural bowel necrosis compared with reversible ischemic change with reperfusion. In this review article, the computed tomography imaging findings specifically associated with the pathophysiology of superior mesenteric arterial occlusion, nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia, and superior mesenteric venous occlusion are reviewed.