Small Intestine - Abdominal Artery Occlusion and Ischaemia

Question 1

What are the two ways this can present?

Answer 1

Acute or Chronic

Question 2

Common sites for occlusion to occur?

Answer 2

Splanchic Arteries 
- Superior Mesenteric Artery
- Coeliac Arteries
- Renal Arteries
Bifurcation of the aorta

Question 3

Signs and symptoms of acute abdominal artery occlusion?

Answer 3

Severe, diffuse abdominal pain

Question 4

Signs and symptoms of acute occlusion of the renal artery?

Answer 4

Sudden flank pain

Haematuria

Question 5

Describe signs and symptoms of chronic abdominal artery occlusion?

Answer 5

Asymptomatic
Intestinal Angina (Cramps 20-60minutes after eating)
Weight Loss
Nauseau
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Dark Stools

Question 6

Describe what relieves intestinal angina caused by abdominal artery occlusion?

Answer 6

Sublingual GTN

Question 7

Describe diagnosis of abdominal artery occlusion?

Answer 7

Angiography

Question 8

Describe treatment of chronic abdominal artery occlusion?

Answer 8

Bypass
Angioplasty (Stent/No stent)
Preventative measures (Antiplatelets)

Question 9

Describe the treatment of acute abdominal artery occlusion?

Answer 9

This is a surgical emergency
PCI
Thrombolysis

Question 10

Very common presentation? (Buzzword)

Answer 10

AF + Abdominal Pain

Question 11

Causes?

Answer 11

Atherosclerosis
Embolism
Dissection
External Compression