Computed tomographic evaluation of mesentery: diagnostic value in acute mesenteric ischemia

To evaluate the computed tomographic appearances of mesentery in acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) to recognize characteristic features and their prognostic values. Computed tomographic examinations of 34 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of AMI were retrospectively reviewed to evaluate the number of mesenteric vessels, diameter of the superior mesenteric artery and superior mesenteric vein, mesenteric fat stranding, mesenteric vessel pneumatosis and ascites. Overall, at least one of these mesenteric signs was present in all but 1 patient. In all AMI of arterial occlusive type and in 68% of nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia, the number of arterial vessels was reduced (P = 0.067). Mesenteric vessel pneumatosis and reduced number of venous vessels were significantly associated with higher mortality (P = 0.027 and P = 0.042, respectively). Reperfusion signs were associated with a reduced mortality (28.7% vs 65.5%). Considering its characteristic features and its possible prognostic value, the evaluation of mesentery will supply additional information in the interpretation of computed tomography in AMI.