Intestinal ischemia (low blood flow)
About Intestinal ischemia (low blood flow)
Results from decreased blood supply to the intestines. The arteries typically become blocked with atherosclerosis, but can also be obstructed from a blood clot that travels to the artery from another location (an embolus) or inflammation of an intestinal artery (vasculitis). Intestinal ischemia can also develop due to low blood pressure, from a twisting of the bowel (volvulus), or from an internal hernia. If the ischemia continues, the intestines can die (infarction) and result in peritonitis and death.Symptoms
Abdominal pain that is more intense than the tenderness, diarrhea, fever, vomiting, low blood pressure, abdominal distension, blood in the stool.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Laboratory tests may show a high white blood cell count (a marker of infection) and increased acid in the bloodstream. Other tests that can be helpful in establishing the diagnosis include abdominal CT scan or an angiogram.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Lipase, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray.
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment often requires surgery although if ischemia is relieved before infarction occurs, surgery may be avoided. Surgery typically involves removal of the damaged portion of the intestine. The cause of the ischemia must also be reversed to prevent recurrence.Medical specialties
General Surgery · Pediatric Surgery
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Intestinal ischemia (low blood flow).