Maximum peak systolic velocity of the superior mesenteric artery in mesenteric ischemia

The value of the maximum peak systolic velocity of the proximal superior mesenteric artery in mesenteric ischemia is analyzed. The maximal peak systolic velocity is recorded in sixteen consecutive patients with arterial mesenteric ischemia. These values are compared to the values obtained in 20 patients with acute infectious entero-colitis, in 12 patients with active inflammatory bowel disease and in 15 normal subjects. Sensitivity and specificity are analyzed with receiving operating characteristics (ROC) curves. In acute mesenteric ischemia, a peak systolic velocity of the superior mesenteric artery below 1.07 m/s is observed and a peak above 3 m/s is observed in chronic ischemia.