title: Recognition and management of embolism to the superior mesenteric artery.
abstract: Two cases of superior mesenteric arterial embolism are presented. The diagnosis should be suspected when severe abdominal pain develops suddenly in a patient with a cardiac arrhythmia or a recent history of myocardial infarction. Further support for the diagnosis is given by the finding of a poor peripheral circulation and a paucity of abdominal physical signs. The value of arteriography is questionable except to distinguish between thrombosis and embolism. The importance of early laparotomy as a diagnostic and life-saving measure is emphasized.
mesh_terms: D000792:Angiography; D002404:Catheterization / Q000009:adverse effects; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004617:Embolism / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007813:Laparotomy; D008297:Male; D008638:Mesenteric Arteries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008641:Mesenteric Vascular Occlusion / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D013997:Time Factors