Intestinal ischemia occurs when blood supply to the organ is disrupted due to narrowing/blockage of the blood vessels in the intestine.
Ischemia can occur in both the small and large intestines. In severe clinical cases, circulatory disorders can cause damage to intestinal tissue, resulting in life-threatening complications.
Symptoms may develop acutely (i.e., suddenly) or be chronic (when symptoms progress over time).
If, after a physical examination, the doctor suspects intestinal ischemia, the following diagnostic procedures will be ordered:
• Blood tests;
• X-rays;
• Computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging;
• Ultrasound;
• Colonoscopy;
• Angiography;
• Surgery to remove damaged tissue.
The main goal of treatment for intestinal ischemia is to restore blood flow to the digestive tract.
The course of treatment may include:
• Antibiotic therapy to treat or prevent infections;
• Management of other medical conditions;
• If the patient is taking a medication that constricts the blood vessels, the medication is removed from the treatment or replaced with another version;
• Surgery to remove the dead tissue;
• Angioplasty;
• Stenting to widen the narrowed artery;
• Removal of the clot;
• Anticoagulant medication if the intestine is not damaged.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/intestinal-ischemia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373950
