Bowel ischemia (also called intestinal ischemia) is a serious condition in which the blood flow to the small or large intestine is reduced or completely blocked. Without enough oxygen, the bowel tissue becomes inflamed, injured, or even necrotic (dead), which can lead to life-threatening complications like perforation, sepsis, and death if not treated urgently.
Dr. K.K. Verma, a highly experienced gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary surgeon in Jabalpur, provides expert diagnosis, emergency intervention, and advanced surgical care for patients suffering from acute or chronic bowel ischemia.
Acute Mesenteric Ischemia (AMI)
Sudden loss of blood flow, usually due to a blood clot or embolism
Requires immediate surgical intervention
Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia (CMI)
Gradual narrowing of arteries supplying the bowel due to atherosclerosis
Causes abdominal pain after meals and unintended weight loss
Ischemic Colitis
Limited blood flow to the large intestine, often temporary
Usually managed conservatively but can become severe
Blood clots in mesenteric arteries or veins
Atherosclerosis (narrowing of intestinal arteries)
Low blood pressure or shock
Cardiac disorders (atrial fibrillation, heart failure)
Postoperative complications
Severe dehydration or sepsis
Certain medications (e.g., vasoconstrictors)
Sudden, severe abdominal pain (out of proportion to examination)
Nausea and vomiting
Bloody or loose stools
Abdominal distension
Fever and chills
Signs of shock (low BP, fast heart rate, confusion)
Cramping abdominal pain after eating
Avoidance of meals due to pain
Weight loss
Bloating or diarrhea
⚠️ Acute ischemia is a surgical emergency. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent bowel death and save life.
Timely and accurate diagnosis is critical for successful outcomes.
History of heart disease or clotting disorders Pain assessment and physical abdominal examination
Elevated WBC count, lactic acid levels Indicators of sepsis or tissue death
Gold standard for identifying arterial or venous blockages Detects ischemia, infarction, or bowel thickening
Used for assessing blood flow in mesenteric vessels (more useful in chronic cases)
In some cases, a minimally invasive camera-assisted surgery is done to directly assess the bowel and decide on intervention
The goal is to stop the leak, treat infection, and stabilize the patient.
IV fluids and correction of dehydration Broad-spectrum antibiotics (to prevent/treat infection) Pain control Blood thinners (anticoagulants) if due to clot in mesenteric veins
Removal of dead or necrotic bowel (bowel resection) Restoration of blood flow Thorough abdominal washout if contamination present Sometimes a temporary stoma (ileostomy/colostomy) may be required
Surgical bypass or clot removal from the mesenteric artery Performed in select cases with vascular surgical support
Performed after 24–48 hours in some patients to check for ongoing or new ischemia
For patients recovering from shock or extensive bowel surgery
Started with fluids, then soft diet once bowel function returns
Long-term blood thinner use may be advised in clot-related ischemia
In cases of extensive bowel loss, nutrition through IV or feeding tubes may be needed temporarily
Yes, if treated early. But delayed diagnosis often leads to bowel death, which requires surgical removal.
Chronic ischemia and mild ischemic colitis may respond to medical treatment. Acute ischemia usually needs surgery.
Hospital stay can range from 5 to 10 days depending on severity. Recovery continues over weeks with proper care.
Untreated ischemia leads to perforation, sepsis, multi-organ failure, and death.
Yes. Patients with heart disease or clotting issues must remain on long-term therapy and lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence.
Dr. K.K. Verma is a renowned laparoscopic surgeon known for his precision and patient-centric care. With years of experience and advanced surgical skills, he specializes in minimally invasive procedures that ensure quicker recovery. His dedication to excellence has earned him the trust of countless patients.
shop no 29, 30, stadium ROAD, opposite Satya Ashoka Hotel, Wright Town, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh 482002
drkrishan.kant@gmail.com
+91-7835924276
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