Does 'intestinal angina' exist? A critical study of obstructed visceral arteries

Br J Surg. 1981 May;68(5):316-8. doi: 10.1002/bjs.1800680509.

Abstract

A study of the mesenteric arteries was carried out in 203 unselected autopsies. Although mild degrees of stenosis were common, the incidence of a 'critical stenosis' was rare and no correlation between degrees of stenosis and previous gastrointestinal symptoms could be found. Radiological demonstration of stenosed or blocked visceral arteries remains therefore of doubtful clinical significance.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Arteriosclerosis / epidemiology*
  • Celiac Artery / pathology
  • Collateral Circulation
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infarction / etiology
  • Intestines / blood supply
  • Male
  • Mesenteric Arteries / pathology
  • Mesenteric Vascular Occlusion / complications
  • Mesenteric Vascular Occlusion / epidemiology*
  • Mesenteric Vascular Occlusion / pathology
  • Middle Aged
  • Pain / etiology