Acute mesenteric venous thrombosis: case for nonoperative management

miR-138-5p ameliorates intestinal barrier disruption caused by acute superior mesenteric vein thrombosis injury by inhibiting the NLRP3/HMGB1 axis

Background

Acute superior mesenteric venous thrombosis (ASMVT) decreases junction-associated protein expression and intestinal epithelial cell numbers, leading to intestinal epithelial barrier disruption. Pyroptosis has also recently been found to be one of the important causes of mucosal barrier defects. However, the role and mechanism of pyroptosis in ASMVT are not fully understood.

Methods

Differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) in the intestinal tissues of ASMVT mice were detected by transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq). Gene expression levels were determined by RNA extraction and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Western blot and immunofluorescence staining analysis were used to analyze protein expression. H&E staining was used to observe the intestinal tissue structure. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidine iodide (FITC/PI) were used to detect cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. Dual-luciferase reporter assays prove that miR-138-5p targets NLRP3.

Results

miR-138-5p expression was downregulated in ASMVT-induced intestinal tissues. Inhibition of miR-138-5p promoted NLRP3-related pyroptosis and destroyed tight junctions between IEC-6 cells, ameliorating ASMVT injury. miR-138-5p targeted to downregulate NLRP3. Knockdown of NLRP3 reversed the inhibition of proliferation, apoptosis, and pyroptosis and the decrease in tight junction proteins caused by suppression of miR-138-5p; however, this effect was later inhibited by overexpressing HMGB1. miR-138-5p inhibited pyroptosis, promoted intestinal epithelial tight junctions and alleviated ASMVT injury-induced intestinal barrier disruption via the NLRP3/HMGB1 axis.

Non-Traumatic Hepatobiliary Emergencies

Hepatobiliary emergencies typically present with a constellation of different symptoms including abdominal pain, fevers, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, coagulopathy, and in some instances, encephalopathy. The differential can be broad and may include infectious, inflammatory, and even iatrogenic etiologies. Workup with appropriate lab and imaging studies can help discern between different pathologies and thus guide their management. Interventions can range broadly from conservative management with medical therapy to endoscopic options or surgery. This article explores the diagnostic workup and evaluation as well as the current therapeutic interventions for a variety of these nontraumatic hepatobiliary emergencies based on the most current literature.

Conservatively Treated Mesenteric Vein Thrombosis in a 48-Year-Old Obese Female: A Case Report

Mesenteric vein thrombosis (MVT) is a rare pathological entity that results in compromised venous return from the intestine due to involvement, in most cases, of the superior mesenteric vein. Its diagnosis is not straightforward, since the findings on physical examination are often disproportionate to the patient's pain complaints, leading to it being undervalued by clinicians. The patient is a 48-year-old female with a medical history of essential arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, class II obesity, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. She also had a family history of gastric and colon cancer, with an age at diagnosis of over 70 years. She went to an appointment at a primary care facility for abdominal pain located in the left hypochondrium and flank, with ipsilateral lumbar irradiation and no other accompanying symptoms. Physical examination revealed a globose, depressible abdomen, painful on palpation of the left quadrants, with no other associated signs of peritoneal irritation. Due to suspicion of acute diverticulitis, the patient was referred to the emergency department (ED) for assessment by general surgery. In the emergency department, given the patient's body type and the fact that the physical examination findings were disproportionate to her symptoms, an abdominal and pelvic computed tomography (CT) scan was ordered, which revealed complete thrombosis of the entire length of the inferior mesenteric vein, with a focal extension of the thrombus, partially obstructing the confluence with the superior mesenteric and portal veins. Various complementary diagnostic tests were requested, which revealed no clinically significant findings, and obesity was therefore identified as the only risk factor. In this context, the patient started anticoagulation with warfarin, with the indication that it should be ad aeternum. To date, the patient remains asymptomatic, and there have been no new thrombotic events. Given the high morbidity and mortality rates of this pathological entity, it is imperative that clinicians are trained to recognize the typical signs of mesenteric venous thrombosis, in the characteristic epidemiological context, in order to establish a timely diagnosis and carry out early targeted therapeutic intervention.

Outcome of laparotomy and conservative treatment of patients with acute mesenteric venous ischemia with viable bowel

BACKGROUND

Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) is one of the most serious abdominal emergencies. Predicting the onset of bowel necrosis that warrants surgical intervention is of paramount importance in AMI. The present study aimed to investigate the outcome of patients with AMI secondary to mesenteric venous occlusion (MVO) and the consequence of non-therapeutic exploratory laparotomy.

METHODS

The records of 132 patients with AMI were retrospectively reviewed. The outcome of patients with acute mesenteric venous ischemia (AMVI) and viable bowel was analyzed based on the method of treatment: conservative versus surgical. The impact of non-therapeutic laparotomy on the outcome of patients with AMVI in terms of morbidity, readmission, and mortality was analyzed.

RESULTS

Forty-seven patients (34 male) with AMVI had viable bowel. Of the 47 patients with viable bowel, 8 (17%) had an exploratory non-therapeutic laparotomy, whereas 39 patients were treated conservatively. Patients who had non-therapeutic laparotomy had significantly higher complication (50 vs 5.1%, p = 0.005) and readmission rates (37.5 vs 5.1%, p = 0.03) and longer hospital stay (8.5 vs 7 days, p = 0.02) than those treated conservatively. Patients with bowel necrosis who had a therapeutic laparotomy had slightly lower rates of morbidity and mortality as compared to patients with viable bowel who underwent a non-therapeutic laparotomy.

CONCLUSION

Careful assessment and informed decision-making in patients with AMVI are crucial to avoid unnecessary surgical intervention that can result in higher rates of complications and readmission and extended hospital stay.

Portal Vein Thrombosis in the Setting of Cirrhosis: A Comprehensive Review

Portal vein thrombosis constitutes the most common thrombotic event in patients with cirrhosis, with increased rates in the setting of advanced liver disease. Despite being a well-known complication of cirrhosis, the contribution of portal vein thrombosis to hepatic decompensation and overall mortality is still a matter of debate. The incorporation of direct oral anticoagulants and new radiological techniques for portal vein recanalization have expanded our therapeutic arsenal. However, the lack of large prospective observational studies and randomized trials explain the heterogenous diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations of current guidelines. This article seeks to make a comprehensive review of the pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of portal vein thrombosis in patients with cirrhosis.

Incidence and outcomes of acute mesenteric ischaemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the incidence of acute mesenteric ischaemia (AMI), proportions of its different forms and short-term and long-term mortality.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE (Ovid), Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane Library were searched until 26 July 2022.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Studies reporting data on the incidence and outcomes of AMI in adult populations.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Data extraction and quality assessment with modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale were performed using predeveloped standard forms. The outcomes were the incidence of AMI and its different forms in the general population and in patients admitted to hospital, and the mortality of AMI in its different forms.

RESULTS

From 3064 records, 335 full texts were reviewed and 163 included in the quantitative analysis. The mean incidence of AMI was 6.2 (95% CI 1.9 to 12.9) per 100 000 person years. On average 5.0 (95% CI 3.3 to 7.1) of 10 000 hospital admissions were due to AMI. Occlusive arterial AMI was the most common form constituting 68.6% (95% CI 63.7 to 73.2) of all AMI cases, with similar proportions of embolism and thrombosis.Overall short-term mortality (in-hospital or within 30 days) of AMI was 59.6% (95% CI 55.5 to 63.6), being 68.7% (95% CI 60.8 to 74.9) in patients treated before the year 2000 and 55.0% (95% CI 45.5 to 64.1) in patients treated from 2000 onwards (p<0.05). The mid/long-term mortality of AMI was 68.2% (95% CI 60.7 to 74.9). Mortality due to mesenteric venous thrombosis was 24.6% (95% CI 17.0 to 32.9) and of non-occlusive mesenteric ischaemia 58.4% (95% CI 48.6 to 67.7). The short-term mortality of revascularised occlusive arterial AMI was 33.9% (95% CI 30.7 to 37.4).

CONCLUSIONS

In adult patients, AMI is a rarely diagnosed condition with high mortality, although with improvement of treatment results over the last decades. Two thirds of AMI cases are of occlusive arterial origin with potential for better survival if revascularised.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42021247148.

Superior mesenteric venous thrombosis: Endovascular management and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Superior mesenteric venous thrombosis (SMVT) is a rare but fatal condition that is typically treated initially with anticoagulation therapy, and if this fails, with endovascular interventions. However, due to its rarity, there are not many studies that have explored the effectiveness of anticoagulation and endovascular therapies in treating SMVT.

AIM

To evaluate patients diagnosed with SMVT who received endovascular therapy in addition to anticoagulation and report technical and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of the patients who underwent endovascular treatment for SMVT at Mayo Clinic from 2000-2019 was performed. Technical success was defined as angiographic improvement in SMV flow after intervention. Primary patency was defined as the interval from reestablishing mesenteric venous flow until the first repeat thrombotic event or need for additional intervention. Secondary patency was defined as successful restoration of flow after repeat intervention until rethrombosis or last follow-up. The adverse events were reported through Clavien-Dindo classification.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients were included for analysis. The median age at intervention was 60 years (35-74 years) and 16 (67%) were men. Nineteen patients presented with acute thrombosis (79.2%) and 5 with chronic thrombosis with acute manifestations (20.8%). The most commonly used endovascular modalities were thrombectomy in 12 patients (50.0%) and catheter-directed thrombolysis in 10 patients (41.7%). Technical success was achieved in 18 patients (75%). The 14-d and 30-d primary patency rates were 88.9% and 83.3%, respectively. Adverse events were reported in two patients (8.3%), one marked as grade IIIB, and 1 death marked as grade V. Five-year overall survival rate was 82% (58%-100%).

CONCLUSION

Endovascular intervention with anticoagulation appears to be effective for managing SMVT. This treatment combination may be considered as first-line therapy for SMVT management in select patients.

Systematic Review of Thrombolysis Therapy in the Management of Non-Cirrhosis-Related Portal Vein Thrombosis

PURPOSE

To review available evidence to assess the efficacy and safety of thrombolysis therapy for non-cirrhosis-related portal vein thrombosis (PVT) that has not improved with anti-coagulation.

METHODS

A literature search of databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, PUBMED, Cochrane and World Wide Web identified studies after 2000 utilizing portal vein thrombolysis in non-cirrhotic patients, with a minimum of 5 patients. Nine studies met criteria with 134 patients. The primary outcome evaluated was radiological re-canalization of the portal vein and symptomatic improvement post treatment. Secondary data points obtained included morbidity, mortality, thrombolysis approach and technique.

RESULTS

The re-canalization rate following thrombolysis was 84% (0.67-1.02 CI 95%) and the symptomatic improvement rate 86% (0.70-1.01 CI 95%). The major complication rate was 7% (0.01-0.14 CI 95%) and the overall complication rate 25% (0.08-0.41 CI 95%). The direct and systemic thrombolysis approach showed no significant re-canalization rates with an odds ratio of 0.78 (0.24-2.55 CI 95%, P = 0.68). Thrombectomy in conjunction with thrombolysis demonstrated no improved patency or symptom relief with an odds ratio of 1 (0.17-6.03 CI 95%, P = 1.00).

CONCLUSION

Thrombolysis is an effective and safe therapy for portal vein thrombosis in non-cirrhotic patients where systemic anti-coagulation has failed. The heterogenicity of study thrombolysis protocols limits the evaluation of secondary outcomes, and future data should be standardized to determine the role of the thrombolysis access route and thrombectomy.

A systematic review and meta-analysis on endovascular treatment as an attractive alternative for acute superior mesenteric venous thrombosis

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the published data on the efficacy and safety of therapies for superior mesenteric venous thrombosis (SMVT), aiming to provide a reference and set of recommendations for clinical treatment.

METHODS

Relevant databases were searched for studies published from 2000 to June 2020 on SMVT treated with conservative treatment, surgical treatment, or endovascular approach. Different treatment types were grouped for analysis and comparison, and odds ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated. The outcomes were pooled using meta-analytic methods and presented by forest plots.

RESULTS

Eighteen articles, including eight on SMVT patients treated with endovascular therapies, were enrolled. The treatment effectiveness was compared between different groups according to the change of symptoms, the occurrence of complications, and mortality as well. The conservative treatment group had better efficacy compared to the surgery group (89.0% vs. 78.6%, P <0.05), and the one-year survival rate was also higher (94.4% vs. 80.0%, P >0.05), but without statistical significance. As for endovascular treatment, the effectiveness was significantly higher than the surgery group (94.8% vs. 75.2%, P <0.05), and the conservative treatment group as well (93.3% vs. 86.3%, P >0.05), which still requires further research for the lack of statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Present findings indicate that anticoagulation, as conservative treatment should be the preferred clinical option in the clinic for SMVT, due to its better curative effect compared to other treatment options, including lower mortality, fewer complications, and better prognosis. Moreover, endovascular treatment is a feasible and promising approach that is worth in-depth research, for it is less invasive than surgery and has relatively better effectiveness, thus can provide an alternative option for SMVT treatment and may be considered as a reliable method in clinical.

Upper gastrointestinal ischemia as a rare complication of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria

When patients with PNH present with abdominal symptoms, thrombosis-induced gastrointestinal injury should be considered; computed tomography and esophagogastroduodenoscopy may help make the diagnosis of this potentially serious complication.

Superior mesenteric vein thrombosis induced by influenza infection: A case report

BACKGROUND

Among the various types and causes of mesenteric ischemia, superior mesenteric vein (SMV) thrombosis is a rare and ambiguous disease. If a patient presents with SMV thrombosis, past medical history should be reviewed, and the patient should be screened for underlying disease. SMV thrombosis may also occur due to systemic infection. In this report, we describe a case of SMV thrombosis complicated by influenza B infection.

CASE SUMMARY

A 64-year-old male visited the hospital with general weakness, muscle aches, fever, and abdominal pain. The patient underwent computed tomography (CT) and was diagnosed with SMV thrombosis. Since the patient’s muscle pain and fever could not be explained by the SMV thrombosis, the clinician performed a test for influenza, which produced a positive result for influenza B. The patient had a thrombus in the SMV only, with no invasion of the portal or splenic veins, and was clinically stable. Anticoagulation treatment was prescribed without surgery or other procedures. The follow-up CT scan showed improvement, and the patient was subsequently discharged with continued oral anticoagulant treatment.

CONCLUSION

This case provides evidence that influenza may be a possible risk factor for SMV thrombosis. If unexplained abdominal pain is accompanied by an influenza infection, examination of an abdominal CT scan may be necessary to screen for possible SMV thrombosis.

Nomogram for predicting transmural bowel infarction in patients with acute superior mesenteric venous thrombosis

BACKGROUND

The prognosis of acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) caused by superior mesenteric venous thrombosis (SMVT) remains undetermined and early detection of transmural bowel infarction (TBI) is crucial. The predisposition to develop TBI is of clinical concern, which can lead to fatal sepsis with hemodynamic instability and multi-organ failure. Early resection of necrotic bowel could improve the prognosis of AMI, however, accurate prediction of TBI remains a challenge for clinicians. When determining the eligibility for explorative laparotomy, the underlying risk factors for bowel infarction should be fully evaluated.

AIM

To develop and externally validate a nomogram for prediction of TBI in patients with acute SMVT.

METHODS

Consecutive data from 207 acute SMVT patients at the Wuhan Tongji Hospital and 89 patients at the Guangzhou Nanfang Hospital between July 2005 and December 2018 were included in this study. They were grouped as training and external validation cohort. The 207 cases (training cohort) from Tongji Hospital were divided into TBI and reversible intestinal ischemia groups based on the final therapeutic outcomes. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify independent risk factors for TBI using the training data, and a nomogram was subsequently developed. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated with respect to discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness in the training and external validation cohort.

RESULTS

Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses identified the following independent prognostic factors associated with TBI in the training cohort: The decreased bowel wall enhancement (OR = 6.37, P < 0.001), rebound tenderness (OR = 7.14, P < 0.001), serum lactate levels > 2 mmol/L (OR = 3.14, P = 0.009) and previous history of deep venous thrombosis (OR = 6.37, P < 0.001). Incorporating these four factors, the nomogram achieved good calibration in the training set [area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) 0.860; 95%CI: 0.771-0.925] and the external validation set (AUC 0.851; 95%CI: 0.796-0.897). The positive and negative predictive values (95%CIs) of the nomogram were calculated, resulting in positive predictive values of 54.55% (40.07%-68.29%) and 53.85% (43.66%-63.72%) and negative predictive values of 93.33% (82.14%-97.71%) and 92.24% (85.91%-95.86%) for the training and validation cohorts, respectively. Based on the nomogram, patients who had a Nomo-score of more than 90 were considered to have high risk for TBI. Decision curve analysis indicated that the nomogram was clinically useful.

CONCLUSION

The nomogram achieved an optimal prediction of TBI in patients with AMI. Using the model, the risk for an individual patient inclined to TBI can be assessed, thus providing a rational therapeutic choice.

Predictors of irreversible intestinal resection in patients with acute mesenteric venous thrombosis

BACKGROUND

Acute mesenteric venous thrombosis (AMVT) can cause a poor prognosis. Prompt transcatheter thrombolysis (TT) can achieve early mesenteric revascularization. However, irreversible intestinal ischemia still occurs and the mechanism is still unclear.

AIM

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of and to identify predictive factors for irreversible intestinal ischemia requiring surgical resection in AMVT patients treated by TT.

METHODS

The records of consecutive patients with AMVT treated by TT from January 2010 to October 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. We compared patients who required resection of irreversible intestinal ischemia to patients who did not require.

RESULTS

Among 58 patients, prompt TT was carried out 28.5 h after admission. A total of 42 (72.4%) patients underwent arteriovenous combined thrombolysis, and 16 (27.6%) underwent arterial thrombolysis alone. The overall 30-d mortality rate was 8.6%. Irreversible intestinal ischemia was indicated in 32 (55.2%) patients, who had a higher 30-d mortality and a longer in-hospital stay than patients without resection. The significant independent predictors of irreversible intestinal ischemia were Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score (odds ratio = 2.368, 95% confidence interval: 1.047-5.357, P = 0.038) and leukocytosis (odds ratio = 2.058, 95% confidence interval: 1.085-3.903, P = 0.027). Using the receiver operating characteristic curve, the cutoff values of the APACHE II score and leukocytosis for predicting the onset of irreversible intestinal ischemia were calculated to be 8.5 and 12 × 10⁹/L, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Prompt TT could achieve a favorable outcome in AMVT patients. High APACHE II score and leukocytosis can significantly predict the occurrence of irreversible intestinal ischemia. Therefore, close monitoring of these factors may help with the early identification of patients with irreversible intestinal ischemia, in whom ultimately surgical resection is required, before the initiation of TT.

Mesenteric venous thrombosis complicating acute appendicitis: A case series

INTRODUCTION

Acute appendicitis is one of the most common surgical conditions. In the current era it rarely presents in association with mesenteric venous thrombosis. We present 4 cases of mesenteric venous thrombosis occurring in the setting of acute appendicitis.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of Mayo Enterprise clinical database for inpatients with a diagnosis of acute appendicitis and venous thrombosis related ICD-10 codes. Charts for patients with a diagnosis of mesenteric venous thrombosis and acute appendicitis were reviewed to identify demographic data, findings at presentation, and management patterns.

RESULTS

A total of 1,615 inpatients were identified with a principle diagnosis of acute appendicitis across the Mayo Enterprise from October 1st, 2015- March 31st, 2019. Four inpatients with a diagnosis of acute appendicitis were also noted to have a mesenteric venous thrombosis at presentation resulting in an incidence of 0.25 %. Mean duration of symptoms at presentation was 12.25 days. All patients with acute appendicitis and mesenteric venous thrombosis were initially managed with a heparin drip, antibiotics, and intravenous fluids. Ultimately, 3 of 4 patients underwent appendectomy.

CONCLUSION

Mesenteric venous thrombosis complicating acute appendicitis is rare and typically presents in a delayed fashion. Patients without evidence of non-viable bowel are typically treated initially with intravenous fluid resuscitation, antibiotics, bowel rest, and anticoagulation with a heparin drip.

ACG Clinical Guideline: Disorders of the Hepatic and Mesenteric Circulation

Disorders of the mesenteric, portal, and hepatic veins and mesenteric and hepatic arteries have important clinical consequences and may lead to acute liver failure, chronic liver disease, noncirrhotic portal hypertension, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although literature in the field of vascular liver disorders is scant, these disorders are common in clinical practice, and general practitioners, gastroenterologists, and hepatologists may benefit from expert guidance and recommendations for management of these conditions. These guidelines represent the official practice recommendations of the American College of Gastroenterology. Key concept statements based on author expert opinion and review of literature and specific recommendations based on PICO/GRADE analysis have been developed to aid in the management of vascular liver disorders. These recommendations and guidelines should be tailored to individual patients and circumstances in routine clinical practice.

Treatment of Superior Mesenteric Vein Thrombus by Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis

Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) greatly improves the diagnosis of superior mesenteric vein (SMV) thrombosis, which presents as the unspecific symptom of abdominal pain. Prothrombotic states or thrombophilia and local intra-abdominal infections are major causes of SMV thrombosis. A 37-year-old Chinese woman was diagnosed with SMV and portal vein thrombosis. The patient was initially given 40 mg of heparin sodium every 12 hr and 80,0000 U/day of urokinase using superior mesenteric artery angiography. The abdominal pain was not relieved after treatment. The patient then underwent open surgery, where an ileal branch of the SMV was punctured, a 4F sheath was introduced into the vein toward the portal vein, and a 20-cm Unifuse catheter was placed inside the thrombus for further thrombolysis. Both heparin sodium and urokinase were infused through catheter-directed thrombolysis. The patient's symptoms then gradually resolved.

Complex management of acute superior mesenteric venous thrombosis in the setting of metastatic ovarian cancer

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Superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (SMVT) is rare but seen in patients with hypercoagulable states.

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Prevention of mortality in patients with SMVT requires immediate diagnosis and complex management.

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A hierarchical approach to treatment progresses to more aggressive treatment as needed.

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Supportive care, medication, and endovascular and/or surgical interventions are available management options.

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In patients with underlying conditions, long-term treatment such as anticoagulation must also be initiated.

Post-traumatic superior mesenteric venous thrombosis with subsequent extension to the portal vein

Acute superior mesenteric vein thrombosis was first described in 1935 by Warren and Eberhardt. It is a potentially life-threatening condition, as it can lead to bowel ischemia and, ultimately, infarction. Its etiology may be primary or secondary to acquired prothrombotic conditions. Early recognition of mesenteric venous thrombosis is important, but can be challenging due to its nonspecific clinical presentation. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is currently the gold standard for diagnosis. Systemic anticoagulation and surgical resection of the necrotic segment are the two main treatments. Here, we describe a case of acute post-traumatic superior mesenteric vein thrombosis, which was treated with systemic anticoagulation and resection of the ischemic bowel segment, with subsequent extension of the thrombosis to the portal vein.

Portomesenteric Thrombosis Secondary to Acute Cholecystitis: A Case Report

Portomesenteric venous thrombosis (PMVT) is an uncommon clinical problem. Common risk factors include intra-abdominal infections, abdominal surgeries, malignancy, cirrhosis, and inherited thrombophilia. Early recognition and treatment of PMVT are important to avoid serious complications like mesenteric ischemia and infarction. Acute cholecystitis is a clinical condition encountered daily but rarely may be complicated by development of portomesenteric venous thrombosis. Only few cases have been reported of superior mesenteric vein thrombosis secondary to cholecystitis. We report a case of a forty-one-year-old male patient who developed partial portal and superior mesenteric vein thrombosis after mild acute cholecystitis for which surgery had been deferred. Patient had no other identifiable risk factors for thrombosis. Patient was successfully treated with 6 months of anticoagulation with warfarin and complete recanalization of portomesenteric veins was achieved at the end of treatment.

Acute superior mesenteric vein thrombosis associated with abdominal trauma: A rare case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Acute mesenteric vein thrombosis (MVT) is defined as new-onset thrombosis of the mesenteric vein without evidence of collateralization, finally resulting in extensive intestinal infarction. MVT may be idiopathic or be caused by conditions responsible for thrombophilia and acquired risk factors. To date, there have been few reports of MVT after trauma. Herein we describe our experiences treating three patients with MVT.

PATIENT CONCERNS

Case 1 was a 44-year-old man with transverse colon mesenteric hematoma after blunt abdominal trauma. Case 2 was a 55-year-old man with jejunal transection after a traffic accident. Case 3 was a 26-year-old man presented with multiple abdominal stab bowel injury.

DIAGNOSES

A 1-week follow-up abdominal computed tomography scan showed superior mesenteric vein thrombosis in all of three patients.

INTERVENTIONS

All patients were treated with anticoagulant for 3 or 6 months.

OUTCOMES

MVTs were completely resolved without any complications.

LESSONS

If early diagnosis and treatment could be available, anticoagulation alone might be adequate for the treatment of SMVT associated with trauma. Early anticoagulation in patients with acute SMVT may avoid the grave prognosis observed in patients with arterial thrombosis.

Fondaparinux is effective for acute portal vein thrombosis in decompensated cirrhotic patients

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a rare but serious complication in the decompensated stage of cirrhosis, and recurrent upper gastrointestinal bleeding and refractory ascites can occur in such patients. In decompensated cirrhotic patients, the application of conventional anticoagulant therapy is limited due to severe coagulation disorders, thrombocytopenia, and history of gastrointestinal bleeding.In this study, we sought to investigate the effect of fondaparinux on acute PVT in decompensated cirrhotic patients.Patients were treated with fondaparinux (2.5 mg, q 24 h, subcutaneously) in the region of the umbilicus for conventional liver protection, after a clear diagnosis was made and contraindications such as active bleeding were ruled out. Other anticoagulants and circulation-improving drugs were not administered. Platelet count, prothrombin time, international normalized ratio, D dimer (DD), and liver function were measured. Furthermore, portal vein color Doppler ultrasound was performed every 7 days while patients were treated with fondaparinux and after portal vein recanalization.The portal vein was recanalized in all patients after treatment (P = .018). The decline in DD had a predictive value for portal vein recanalization (P = .018). No side effects such as bleeding or thrombocytopenia occurred in any of the patients (P > .05).Selective factor Xa inhibitor fondaparinux is effective and safe for acute PVT in decompensated cirrhotic patients.

Treatment outcomes and risk factors for bowel infarction in patients with acute superior mesenteric venous thrombosis

OBJECTIVE

The prognosis of acute superior mesenteric venous thrombosis (SMVT) remains obscure. We aimed to investigate the treatment outcomes and possible risk factors for bowel infarction in these patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively included 66 patients with acute SMVT between January 2002 and June 2016. Each patient underwent contrast-enhanced computed tomography as part of the initial diagnosis. The standard protocol for management included a nonsurgical approach with early anticoagulation and selective exploration. For the analysis of the risk factors for bowel infarction, patients were divided into bowel resection (BR) and non-BR groups. Outcomes of interest were causes of SMVT, percentage of BR after nonsurgical treatment, and risk factors for BR.

RESULTS

Of 66 patients, 15 (23%) underwent BR; of these, 9 underwent urgent BR because of peritoneal signs and definite findings of bowel infarction on computed tomography scan, 4 underwent BR after failed anticoagulation, and 2 underwent BR because of delayed stricture. Clinically, vomiting (P = .003), abdominal distention (P = .003), rebound tenderness (P = .005), and leukocytosis (P = .001) were associated with BR. On radiologic examination, bowel wall thickening (P < .001), enhancement defects of the bowel wall (P < .001), and ascites (P = .007) were associated with BR. Twenty-seven (41%) patients presented with isolated SMVT, and the remaining patients demonstrated a coexisting portal vein (PV) thrombosis in addition to SMVT. All 15 BRs occurred in patients with combined PV thrombosis and SMVT (P < .001). Complete thrombosis of the superior mesenteric vein and PV was also associated with BR (P = .028 for superior mesenteric vein; P = .025 for PV). BR was performed in 1 (4%) of 24 patients with transient risk factors compared with 14 (33%) of 42 patients without transient risk factors (P = .006). Three patients (4.5%) died in the hospital.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with acute SMVT, the extent of thrombus and etiology were associated with the severity of acute SMVT. Patients with transient risk factors and isolated SMVT tended to have a benign disease course. With early anticoagulation, acute SMVT does not seem to have the grave prognosis that is associated with arterial thrombosis.

The role of endovascular therapy in acute mesenteric ischemia

Background

Endovascular therapy, including aspiration thrombectomy and local thrombolytic therapy, often associated with angioplasty and stent placement, has been described in the literature. The purpose of this study was to review case series of patients with acute mesenteric ischemia treated with endovascular therapy and evaluate their outcomes.

Methods

An online review using PubMed was carried out to identify all English articles about this topic in the time interval from 2005 to 2016.

The following variables were extracted

number of patients, cause of occlusion, symptoms, arteries involved, number of sessions of treatment, technical success, clinical success, recurrence rate, complications, mortality rate, number of patients who underwent diagnostic laparoscopy or surgical resection of ischemic bowel.

Results

Eighteen papers met the inclusion criteria and were included. Among the patients with arterial mesenteric ischemia treated with endovascular approach, the technical success rate was high (up to 100%) and data regarding clinical success are encouraging, even though they are few and heterogeneous. Technical success rate and clinical success of patients with acute venous mesenteric ischemia approached with endovascular treatment was 74-100% and 87.5-100% respectively.

Conclusions

Current advances in endovascular therapies have made these treatments feasible for mesenteric ischemia.

Predictive Factors of Intestinal Necrosis in Acute Mesenteric Ischemia: Prospective Study from an Intestinal Stroke Center

OBJECTIVES

To identify predictive factors for irreversible transmural intestinal necrosis (ITIN) in acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) and establish a risk score for ITIN.

METHODS

This single-center prospective cohort study was performed between 2009 and 2015 in patients with AMI. The primary outcome was the occurrence of ITIN, confirmed by specimen analysis in patients who underwent surgery. Patients who recovered from AMI with no need for intestinal resection were considered not to have ITIN. Clinical, biological and radiological data were compared in a Cox regression model.

RESULTS

A total of 67 patients were included. The origin of AMI was arterial, venous, or non-occlusive in 61%, 37%, 2% of cases, respectively. Intestinal resection and ITIN concerned 42% and 34% of patients, respectively. Factors associated with ITIN in multivariate analysis were: organ failure (hazard ratio (HR): 3.1 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1-8.5); P=0.03), serum lactate levels >2 mmol/l (HR: 4.1 (95% CI: 1.4-11.5); P=0.01), and bowel loop dilation on computerized tomography scan (HR: 2.6 (95% CI: 1.2-5.7); P=0.02). ITIN rate increased from 3% to 38%, 89%, and 100% in patients with 0, 1, 2, and 3 factors, respectively. Area under the receiver operating characteristics curve for the diagnosis of ITIN was 0.936 (95% CI: 0.866-0.997) depending on the number of predictive factors.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified three predictive factors for irreversible intestinal ischemic injury requiring resection in the setting of AMI. Close monitoring of these factors could help avoid unnecessary laparotomy, prevent resection, as well as complications due to unresected necrosis, and possibly lower the overall mortality.

Early initiation of argatroban therapy in the management of acute superior mesenteric venous thrombosis

Acute superior mesenteric venous thrombosis (ASMVT) is an intractable disease with poor prognosis. Argatroban, a direct thrombin inhibitor, may be a novel anticoagulant method in the therapy of ASMVT. The aim of the present study was to assess the efficacy and safety of early argatroban therapy in ASMVT patients. The current retrospective study reviewed a consecutive series of ASMVT patients receiving early argatroban therapy during hospitalization between March 2013 and April 2014, with 18 ASMVT patients included in the study. Of these, 16 patients without hepatic dysfunction underwent anticoagulant therapy with argatroban with a mean dose of 1.57±0.34 µg/kg/min and a mean duration of 12.2±3.7 days, while their activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) was elevated to 1.95±0.26 times the baseline value. In addition, 2 hepatic dysfunction patients received therapy with a dose of 0.41 µg/kg/min and 0.46 µg/kg/min, and with aPTT of 1.68 and 1.62 times the baseline value, respectively. Overall, 94% (n=17) of the patients presented clinical improvement, while 88% (n=16) of patients presented partially or completely dissolved thrombus in contrast-enhanced computed tomography images. The incidence of surgery and bowel resection was 6% (excluding 1 case with intestinal necrosis detected on admission). Furthermore, 11% (n=2) of patients experienced a bleeding episode, however no major bleeding or mortality occurred during hospitalization. During the follow-up, the mortality and the recurrence rate were 6% and 11%, respectively. In conclusion, early initiation of argatroban treatment may be an effective and safe therapy in ASMVT, manifesting efficient resolution of the thrombus, rapid improvement of symptoms, low incidence of bowel resection and bleeding complication, and low mortality rate.

Testing for thrombophilia in mesenteric venous thrombosis - Retrospective original study and systematic review

The aim was to perform a local study of risk factors and thrombophilia in mesenteric venous thrombosis (MVT), and to review the literature concerning thrombophilia testing in MVT. Patients hospitalized for surgical or medical treatment of MVT at our center 2000-2015. A systematic review of observational studies was performed. In the local study, the most frequently identified risk factor was Factor V Leiden mutation. The systematic review included 14 original studies. The highest pooled percentage of any inherited thrombophilic factor were: Factor V Leiden mutation 9% (CI 2.9-16.1), prothrombin gene mutation 7% (CI 2.7-11.8). The highest pooled percentage of acquired thrombophilic factors were JAK2 V617F mutation 14% (CI -1.9-28.1). The wide range of frequency of inherited and acquired thrombophilic factors in different populations indicates the necessity to relate these factors to background population based data in order to estimate their overrepresentation in MVT. There is a need to develop guidelines for when and how thrombophilia testing should be performed in MVT.

Potential of a Pharmacogenetic-Guided Algorithm to Predict Optimal Warfarin Dosing in a High-Risk Hispanic Patient: Role of a Novel NQO1*2 Polymorphism

Deep abdominal vein thrombosis is extremely rare among thrombotic events secondary to the use of contraceptives. A case to illustrate the clinical utility of ethno-specific pharmacogenetic testing in warfarin management of a Hispanic patient is reported. A 37-year-old Hispanic Puerto Rican, non-gravid female with past medical history of abnormal uterine bleeding on hormonal contraceptive therapy was evaluated for abdominal pain. Physical exam was remarkable for unspecific diffuse abdominal tenderness, and general initial laboratory results-including coagulation parameters-were unremarkable. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed a massive thrombosis of the main portal, splenic, and superior mesenteric veins. On admission the patient was started on oral anticoagulation therapy with warfarin at 5 mg/day and low-molecular-weight heparin. The prediction of an effective warfarin dose of 7.5 mg/day, estimated by using a recently developed pharmacogenetic-guided algorithm for Caribbean Hispanics, coincided with the actual patient's warfarin dose to reach the international normalized ratio target. We speculate that the slow rise in patient's international normalized ratio observed on the initiation of warfarin therapy, the resulting high risk for thromboembolic events, and the required warfarin dose of 7.5 mg/day are attributable in some part to the presence of the NQO1*2 (g.559C>T, p.P187S) polymorphism, which seems to be significantly associated with resistance to warfarin in Hispanics. By adding genotyping results of this novel variant, the predictive model can inform clinicians better about the optimal warfarin dose in Caribbean Hispanics. The results highlight the potential for pharmacogenetic testing of warfarin to improve patient care.

Comparison of Systemic Thrombolysis Versus Indirect Thrombolysis via the Superior Mesenteric Artery in Patients with Acute Portal Vein Thrombosis. Ann Vasc Surg. 2017;39:264-269. [PMID: 27671456 DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2016.06.029]

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of indirect thrombolysis via the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) in patients with acute portal vein thrombosis.

METHODS

Over 10 years, we studied the safety and efficacy of indirect thrombolysis via the SMA in 34 patients with acute portal vein thrombosis. Eighteen patients were categorized as the systemic thrombolysis (ST) group and 16 as the catheter thrombolysis (CT) group. The ST group was administered low-molecular-weight heparin, and patients in the CT group received catheter thrombolysis. Clinical data, such as comorbidities, laboratory test results, therapeutic methods, and prognosis, were recorded. All the patients underwent a routine clinical follow-up that was performed by inpatient examinations or outpatient visits at a mean follow-up time of 34 months.

RESULTS

The thrombus score was significantly higher in the ST group (3.67 ± 1.19) than in the CT group (2.38 ± 0.62) after 2 weeks of treatment (P < 0.05). The average period of symptom alleviated was longer in the ST group (3.29 ± 1.59 days) than in the CT group (2.07 ± 0.73 days, P < 0.05). Five patients (4 in the ST group and 1 in the CT group) underwent a laparotomy because of peritonitis after thrombolysis for 24 hr. One patient died of a malignant tumor after 18 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Indirect thrombolysis via the SMA is safer and more effective for patients with portal vein thrombosis compared with systemic thrombolysis.

Surgical Management of Chronic Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis

Although mesenteric venous thrombosis is an uncommon disease, it is a diagnostic dilemma and if left untreated results in significant morbidity and mortality. The clinical presentation of mesenteric venous thrombosis (MVT) is varied and depends on the etiology. Prompt recognition and treatment is important as this may limit the progression of thrombosis. Even though medical management is the current mainstay of therapy, there have been reported cases of clinical improvement with operative management. The authors describe an improved outcome following mesenteric-systemic shunting in a symptomatic patient with acute-on-chronic MVT affecting the proximal superior mesenteric vein.

Superior Mesenteric Vein Thrombosis Associated with Hormonal Contraceptive Use

A 44-year-old woman was admitted with a 7-day history of lower abdominal pain and nausea. Physical examination demonstrated tenderness in the lower abdomen without signs of peritonitis. There were no specific findings in the laboratory evaluation. She had a history of dysmenorrhea for 15 years and was taking a combined hormonal contraceptive containing 0.02 mg ethinyl estradiol and 3 mg drospirenone for 19 months. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (SMVT). Systemic anticoagulant infusion was immediately administered and the symptoms disappeared within 2 days. The thrombus disappeared after 3 months. This case report suggests that early diagnosis of SMVT and immediate systemic anticoagulant therapy may reduce the rate of intestinal infarction.

Mesenteric venous thrombosis

OBJECTIVE

This review explores the current literature on the natural history, diagnosis, and management of mesenteric venous thrombosis (MVT) in the modern era.

METHODS

A review of the contemporary literature from 1997 to 2016 on MVT and its pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment was performed.

RESULTS

MVT is an insidious and lethal disease associated with acute mesenteric ischemia. The prevalence of MVT has increased sharply during the past two decades commensurate with an increase in radiographic imaging for abdominal complaints. The optimal treatment of and approach to MVT is controversial, given the poorly understood natural history of this rare disease. Both endovascular and open surgical strategies in addition to systemic anticoagulation have been used as adjuncts to treat MVT with limited success. Despite advances in treatment, mortality associated with MVT is still high. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that failure to recanalize the portomesenteric venous system leads to an increased risk for development of sequelae of portal hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS

MVT is a challenging disease to treat, given the difficulty in establishing a prompt initial diagnosis and the inability to reliably monitor patients for evidence of impending bowel infarction. Careful selection of patients for endovascular, open, or hybrid approaches is key to achieving improved outcomes. However, the paucity of prospective data and our evolving understanding of the natural history of MVT make consensus treatment strategies difficult to ascertain.

Percutaneous Transhepatic Thrombectomy and Pharmacologic Thrombolysis of Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis

Mesenteric venous occlusion is a rare yet highly morbid condition that is traditionally treated with anticoagulation while surgery serves as the last resort. Percutaneous intervention provides an effective option with relatively low mortality and morbidity. We herein describe use of transhepatic percutaneous thrombectomy and pharmacologic thrombolysis in treating two cases of symptomatic mesenteric venous thrombosis. These cases underscore the fact that transhepatic thrombectomy and thrombolysis are a highly effective strategy for treating acute symptomatic mesenteric venous thrombosis. Several percutaneous techniques are also reviewed.

Mesenteric vein thrombosis can be safely treated with anticoagulation but is associated with significant sequelae of portal hypertension

BACKGROUND

Mesenteric venous thrombosis (MVT) is a relatively uncommon but potentially lethal condition associated with bowel ischemia and infarction. The natural history and long-term outcomes are poorly understood and under-reported.

METHODS

A single-institution retrospective review of noncirrhotic patients diagnosed with MVT from 1999 to 2015 was performed using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision and radiology codes. Patients were excluded if no radiographic imaging was available for review. Eighty patients were identified for analysis. Demographic, clinical, and radiographic data on presentation and at long-term follow-up were collected. Long-term sequelae of portal venous hypertension were defined as esophageal varices, portal vein cavernous transformation, splenomegaly, or hepatic atrophy, as seen on follow-up imaging.

RESULTS

There were 80 patients (57.5% male; mean age, 57.9 ± 15.6 years) identified; 83.3% were symptomatic, and 80% presented with abdominal pain. Median follow-up was 480 days (range, 1-6183 days). Follow-up radiographic and clinical data were available for 50 patients (62.5%). The underlying causes of MVT included cancer (41.5%), an inflammatory process (25.9%), the postoperative state (20.7%), and idiopathic cases (18.8%). Pancreatic cancer was the most common associated malignant neoplasm (53%), followed by colon cancer (15%). Twenty patients (26%) had prior or concurrent lower extremity deep venous thromboses. Most patients (68.4%) were treated with anticoagulation; the rest were treated expectantly. Ten (12.5%) had bleeding complications related to anticoagulation, including one death from intracranial hemorrhage. Four patients underwent intervention (three pharmacomechanical thrombolysis and one thrombectomy). One patient died of intestinal ischemia. Two patients had recurrent MVT, both on discontinuing anticoagulation. Long-term imaging sequelae of portal hypertension were noted in 25 of 50 patients (50%) who had follow-up imaging available. Patients with long-term sequelae had lower recanalization rates (36.8% vs 65%; P = .079) and significantly higher rates of complete as opposed to partial thrombosis at the initial event (73% vs 43.3%; P < .005). Long-term sequelae were unrelated to the initial cause or treatment with anticoagulation (P = NS).

CONCLUSIONS

Most cases of MVT are associated with malignant disease or an inflammatory process, such as pancreatitis. A diagnosis of malignant disease in the setting of MVT has poor prognosis, with a 5-year survival of only 25%. MVT can be effectively treated with anticoagulation in the majority of cases. Operative or endovascular intervention is rarely needed but important to consider in patients with signs of severe ischemia or impending bowel infarction. There is a significant incidence of radiographically noted long-term sequelae from MVT related to portal venous hypertension, especially in cases of initial complete thrombosis of the mesenteric vein.

Postoperative Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis Versus Systemic Anticoagulation for Acute Superior Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis

BACKGROUND

Little data evaluate catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) therapy as a sequential treatment of emergent surgery for patients with acute superior mesenteric venous thrombosis (ASMVT). We compared the outcomes of ASMVT patients receiving CDT via superior mesenteric artery (SMA) with those who had systemic anticoagulation after emergent laparotomy.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective study of ASMVT patients receiving emergent laparotomy from May 2012 to April 2014 was performed. Patients in group I had postoperative systemic anticoagulation and patients in group II underwent postoperative CDT. The demography, etiology, imaging features, clinical outcomes, and complications were compared. Moreover, univariate analysis was performed to identify confounding variables of 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients (20 males, mean age of 44.9 ± 10.6 years) were included, 17 in group I and 15 in group II. No significant differences of demographic data, etiology, baseline value, and perioperative comorbidity were found. The rate of complete thrombus removal was significantly higher in group II than group I (29.4% vs. 80.0%, P = 0.001). The second-look laparotomy and repeat bowel resection (58.8% vs. 13.3%, P = 0.002) were required in fewer patients in group II (20.0% vs. 70.6%, P = 0.001). The incidence of short-bowel syndrome (SBS; 41.2% vs. 6.7%, P = 0.001) and 30-day mortality (41.2% vs. 6.7%, P = 0.001) were lower in group II. The 1-year survival was also better in group II (52.9% vs. 93.3%, P = 0.014). The incidence of massive abdominal hemorrhage requiring blood transfusion and surgical intervention was 11.8% in group I and 20.0% in group II (P = 0.645). The age, serum D-dimer level, SBS, and postoperative CDT were significant risk factors of 30-day mortality in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

For ASMVT patients receiving emergent surgery and intraoperative thrombectomy, the algorithm with postoperative CDT via SMA is associated with more favorable clinical outcome compared with systemic anticoagulation.

Mesenteric Ischemia

Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) is a rare disease that most commonly affects the elderly. The vague symptoms often lead to delayed diagnosis and consequent high mortality. Physical exam and laboratory findings lack the sensitivity and specificity to exclude AMI, but computed tomography angiography can rapidly and accurately confirm the diagnosis. Survival improves with prompt restoration of perfusion and resection of nonviable bowel. Advances in imaging, operative techniques, and critical care have led to a steady decline in overall mortality; however, long-term survival is limited because of the comorbidities in this patient group.

Mesenteric ischemia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia in the early stages is now possible with modern computed tomography (CT), using intravenous contrast enhancement and imaging in the arterial and/or portal venous phase. The availability of CT around the clock means that more patients with acute mesenteric ischemia may be treated with urgent intestinal revascularization.

RECENT FINDINGS

The establishment of a hybrid operation room is most important to be able to perform explorative laparotomy for evaluation of the extent of mesenteric ischemia and successful intestinal revascularization. Endovascular recanalization and stenting has become an important alternative, especially in patients with both acute and chronic thrombotic superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion. Aspiration embolectomy, thrombolysis and open surgical embolectomy, followed by on-table angiography, are the treatment options for embolic SMA occlusion. Endovascular therapy may be an option in the few patients with mesenteric venous thrombosis who do not respond to anticoagulation therapy. The concept of damage-control surgery is recommended after intestinal revascularization.

SUMMARY

Intestinal revascularization in patients with arterial occlusive mesenteric ischemia reduces bowel morbidity and mortality. Observational studies report that both endovascular and open vascular therapy options are effective, but endovascular technique may be preferred in these often elderly and fragile patients.

Small bowel stricture as a late sequela of superior mesenteric vein thrombosis

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64-year-old man admitted with abdominal pain and rectal bleeding found to have thrombosis of portal and superior mesenteric veins on abdominal CT.

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Managed conservatively but returned seven months later with obstruction requiring segmental small bowel resection.

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Case demonstrates that mesenteric vein thrombosis can be reversed by effective anticoagulation.

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Patients escaping early bowel resection due to bowel infarction may still require resection later due to stricture.

Introduction

The increasing frequency of use of CT in patients with acute abdomen is likely to improve the diagnosis of rarely occurring conditions/causes such as superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (MVT). Despite its severe consequences, MVT often presents with nonspecific clinical features.

Presentation of case

AD, a 64-year-old man was an emergency admission with vague abdominal discomfort of two weeks duration, acute upper abdominal pain, loose stools, fresh rectal bleeding and vomiting. A contrast enhanced abdominal CT showed thrombosis of the proximal portal vein and the entire length of the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) with small bowel ischaemia extending from the terminal ileum to the mid jejunal loops. Tests for paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria and Janus kinase 2 mutation yielded negative results. AD was readmitted seven months later with small bowel obstruction requiring segmental small bowel resection with end-to-end anastomosis. Abdominal CT had shown complete resolution of MVT but a small bowel stricture.

Discussion

Thrombosis limited to mesenteric veins results in earlier and more frequent development of infarction compared to portal combined with mesenteric venous thrombosis. Most patients may be successfully treated with anti-coagulation therapy alone. However, surgery may be required to deal with intestinal infarction or late sequela of MVT.

Conclusion

This case demonstrates that MVT can be reversed by effective anticoagulation. However, the price paid for a mild to moderate effect on the bowel may be significant stricture later on. Patients escaping early bowel resection due to massive MVT leading to bowel infarction may still require resection later due to stricture.

Etiology and Complications of Portal Vein Thrombosis

BACKGROUND

Portal venous occlusion represents a disorder with considerable clinical relevance. The underlying causes of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) are frequently multifactorial and include malignancies, progressive chronic liver diseases, processes localized to the epigastrium and hepatobiliary system, and acquired as well as inherited thrombophilia. The three main categorical groups are malignant thrombosis, cirrhotic PVT, and non-malignant, non-cirrhotic PVT.

METHODS

Review of the literature.

RESULTS

The site, the extent, its chronicity, and the course of thromboses characterize a relatively heterogeneous clinical presentation and the ensuing complications in affected patients. While the occlusion of the extrahepatic portal and splenic vein likely provokes mainly complications related to portal hypertension, mesenteric venous obstruction shows a high rate of complications and mortality due to intestinal infarction. Especially in patients with liver cirrhosis, special care is warranted with regard to PVTs due to their pathogenetic role and influence on patient survival.

CONCLUSION

This article aims to summarize the current opinion on etiologies, risk factors, and complications of this heterogeneous condition in adults.