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Read MoreA mesenteric aneurysm is a rare but serious condition where an artery that supplies blood to the intestines weakens. Left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening complications, but early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
What is a Mesenteric Aneurysm?
A mesenteric aneurysm is a bulge or balloon in the wall of a mesenteric artery, one of the blood vessels that delivers blood to your intestines. It forms when part of the artery wall weakens, allowing it to stretch abnormally. Though rare, mesenteric aneurysms can be life-threatening if they rupture, leading to internal bleeding and compromised blood flow to the digestive tract.
Mesenteric aneurysms can be caused by conditions that damage blood vessels over time, such as atherosclerosis, infection, inflammation or trauma. They may also be related to congenital conditions or connective tissue disorders that weaken artery walls.
Types of mesenteric aneurysms
There are several types of mesenteric aneurysms, classified based on which artery is affected:
- Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) aneurysm: The most common type, which occurs in the artery that supplies most of the small intestine and part of the large intestine
- Inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) aneurysm: A rarer type that affects the artery that supplies the lower part of the colon and rectum
- Jejunal, ileal or colic artery aneurysms: These types affect smaller branches of the mesenteric arteries and are very rare but can still be dangerous
Mesenteric Aneurysms Risk Factors
Risk factors for mesenteric aneurysms include high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, age and a history of vascular disease. Certain infections, inflammatory conditions like vasculitis, abdominal trauma or surgery can also increase the likelihood of developing a mesenteric aneurysm.
What Are the Symptoms of a Mesenteric Aneurysm?
Many mesenteric aneurysms don’t cause symptoms until they grow large or rupture, but when symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Sudden or persistent abdominal pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- A pulsating mass in the abdomen
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Signs of shock, such as rapid heartbeat or low blood pressure, if a rupture occurs
How is a Mesenteric Aneurysm Diagnosed?
Mesenteric aneurysms are usually detected during imaging tests for other health issues, as symptoms rarely appear early. Doctors confirm the diagnosis with advanced imaging like CT angiography or MR angiography, which pinpoints the aneurysm's size and location. Ultrasound can quickly evaluate blood flow in urgent cases. These diagnostic tools help assess rupture risk and guide the best treatment plan.
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Mesenteric Aneurysm Treatment Options
Watchful Waiting
Small, asymptomatic aneurysms may be monitored regularly with imaging to track changes in size or shape over time.
Lifestyle Modifications and Medication
Managing blood pressure and cholesterol and quitting smoking can slow aneurysm growth. Doctors may prescribe medications to reduce strain on blood vessels.
Endovascular Repair
A minimally invasive procedure where a stent graft is inserted through a blood vessel to reinforce the weakened artery wall and prevent rupture.
Open Surgical Repair
In more severe or complex cases, open surgery can remove or bypass the aneurysm. This approach is often reserved for large or symptomatic aneurysms with a high rupture risk.
Inspira’s Approach to Mesenteric Aneurysm Treatment
At Inspira, our vascular experts use advanced diagnostics and personalized care to treat mesenteric aneurysms. We offer minimally invasive endovascular repair, open surgery for complex cases and careful monitoring based on your needs. Our multidisciplinary team ensures coordinated care by collaborating with radiologists, vascular surgeons and critical care specialists, ensuring you receive expert, timely care and clear guidance about your options.
