At Vascular Surgery Associates, our leading vascular specialists in Los Angeles and Santa Monica provide advanced diagnosis, treatment, and management for mesenteric ischemia, a serious condition where restricted blood flow to the intestines can cause severe abdominal pain, digestive issues, and life-threatening complications. With state-of-the-art vascular imaging and minimally invasive and surgical interventions, we help patients restore blood flow and improve their quality of life.
What is Mesenteric Ischemia?
Mesenteric ischemia occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the intestines become narrowed or blocked, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to the digestive organs. If left untreated, this condition can result in intestinal damage, tissue death, and severe complications requiring emergency medical care.
Mesenteric ischemia is classified into two main types:
Acute Mesenteric Ischemia
A sudden blockage of blood flow, often caused by a blood clot (embolism) or severe arterial narrowing, leading to severe pain and rapid intestinal damage
Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia
A progressive condition caused by atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits build up in the arteries over time, restricting blood flow to the intestines
Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to preventing serious complications and restoring normal digestive function.
Symptoms of Mesenteric Ischemia
The symptoms of mesenteric ischemia depend on whether the condition is acute or chronic.
Acute Mesenteric Ischemia Symptoms:
- Sudden, severe abdominal pain that worsens over time
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea or bloody stools
- Rapid heart rate and low blood pressure
- Severe illness requiring emergency medical attention
Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia Symptoms:
- Recurrent abdominal pain after eating (postprandial pain)
- Unintended weight loss due to eating avoidance
- Diarrhea and bloating
- Malnutrition and digestive discomfort
If you experience persistent abdominal pain after meals or severe sudden pain, seek immediate vascular evaluation.
Top Risk Factors for Mesenteric Ischemia
Several factors increase the risk of developing mesenteric ischemia, including:
Atherosclerosis
Hardening of the arteries that restricts blood flow
Heart disease
Increases the risk of arterial blockages
Smoking
Damages blood vessels and accelerates plaque buildup
High blood pressure and cholesterol
Contribute to narrowing of the arteries
Diabetes
Affects circulation and arterial health
History of blood clots
Raises the likelihood of arterial embolism
Advanced Diagnosis for Mesenteric Ischemia
At Vascular Surgery Associates, we use state-of-the-art imaging to accurately diagnose mesenteric ischemia and determine the best treatment approach.
CT and MR Angiography
Provides detailed imaging of the mesenteric arteries to detect narrowing or blockages
Doppler Ultrasound
Evaluates blood flow to the intestines
Catheter-Based Angiography
A minimally invasive procedure where contrast dye is injected into the arteries to assess circulation in real-time
Cutting-Edge Treatment Options for Mesenteric Ischemia in Los Angeles and Santa Monica
Our vascular specialists in Los Angeles and Santa Monica provide both minimally invasive and surgical treatments for mesenteric ischemia.
Angioplasty & Stenting
A minimally invasive procedure where a balloon expands the narrowed artery, followed by stent placement to keep the artery open
Surgical Bypass
Used for severe cases, where a graft is placed to bypass the blocked artery and restore blood flow
Endovascular Therapy
Catheter-based techniques to remove blockages and restore circulation
Timely intervention is essential to prevent severe complications like intestinal infarction (tissue death), which may require bowel resection.
Managing Mesenteric Ischemia for Long-Term Health
After treatment, lifestyle modifications and ongoing medical management help improve vascular health and prevent recurrence.
- Quitting smoking Reduces the risk of arterial disease progression
- Healthy diet Lowers cholesterol and supports digestion
- Regular exercise Improves circulation and vascular function
- Medication management Blood thinners or cholesterol-lowering medications may be prescribed
Ongoing vascular screenings and follow-up care are critical to monitor artery health and prevent future complications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mesenteric Ischemia
Acute mesenteric ischemia is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment, while chronic mesenteric ischemia can lead to malnutrition and severe complications if untreated.
It is commonly caused by atherosclerosis, blood clots, or arterial narrowing that restricts blood flow to the intestines.
Treatment depends on the severity but may include angioplasty with stenting, surgical bypass, or lifestyle and medication management.
Yes, maintaining a heart-healthy diet, managing cholesterol, quitting smoking, and staying active can significantly lower the risk.
Severe cases can lead to intestinal damage, tissue death, and life-threatening complications. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical.
Dedicated to Excellence in Vascular Care Since 1963
Vascular Surgery Associates (VSA) has established itself as a cornerstone of vascular health in Southern California, combining decades of experience with cutting-edge treatment methods. Founded by visionary surgeons in 1963, our practice has grown from pioneering beginnings into one of the busiest and most respected vascular surgery groups in the Western United States.
Schedule a Consult for Mesenteric Ischemia Treatment with a California Vascular Specialist
If you are experiencing abdominal pain after eating, unexplained weight loss, or other signs of mesenteric ischemia, our vascular specialists in Los Angeles and Santa Monica can help. At Vascular Surgery Associates, we provide expert diagnosis and advanced treatment options to restore blood flow and improve your digestive health. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation.