Bowel infarction

Bowel Infarction

Bowel infarction, also known as intestinal infarction, is a serious medical condition characterized by the death of a segment of the intestine due to a lack of blood supply. This condition is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate attention to prevent severe complications or death. Bowel infarction can affect any part of the intestine, including the small intestine and the large intestine.

Causes

The primary cause of bowel infarction is a blockage in the arteries that supply blood to the intestines. This blockage can be due to various factors, including:

• Thrombosis: The formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel.
• Embolism: The sudden blocking of an artery by a clot or foreign material that has been brought to its site of lodgment by the blood current.
• Vasculitis: Inflammation of the blood vessels.
• Strangulated hernia: A hernia that cuts off blood supply to the intestine.
• Volvulus: Twisting of the intestine that causes obstruction.
• Intussusception: Telescoping of a segment of the intestine into another segment.

Symptoms

Symptoms of bowel infarction can vary but often include:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bloody stools
• Fever
• Rapid heartbeat
• Low blood pressure
• Abdominal distension

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of bowel infarction involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, including:

• Blood tests: To check for signs of infection or inflammation.
• Imaging studies: Such as CT scan or MRI to visualize the intestines and identify blockages.
• Angiography: An imaging test to view blood vessels and check for blockages.

Treatment

Treatment for bowel infarction typically involves surgery to remove the dead segment of the intestine and restore blood flow. Other treatments may include:

• Antibiotics: To prevent or treat infection.
• IV fluids: To prevent dehydration and maintain blood pressure.
• Pain management: To relieve symptoms.
• Nutritional support: Including total parenteral nutrition (TPN) if the patient is unable to eat.

Complications

If not treated promptly, bowel infarction can lead to serious complications, including:

• Sepsis: A life-threatening response to infection.
• Peritonitis: Inflammation of the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity.
• Short bowel syndrome: A condition that occurs when a large portion of the small intestine is removed.

Prevention

Preventing bowel infarction involves managing risk factors and conditions that can lead to blood flow obstruction. This includes:

• Regular medical check-ups
• Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure
• Avoiding smoking
• Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine

See Also

• Ischemic colitis
• Mesenteric ischemia
• Gastrointestinal perforation