Unfortunately, the only effective treatment for mesenteric ischemia is surgery. This is performed to improve blood flow to your intestines and other organs. Your physician may suggest one of the following types of surgery:
- Bypass surgery is a common approach that surgeons use to create new routes through which blood can flow around the blocked or narrowed mesenteric artery. These “bypasses” are created using healthy vessels taken from the chest, arms or legs.
- Mesenteric artery angioplasty and stenting uses a thin tube (catheter) that is guided into the blocked artery. Once in place, a tiny balloon is inflated to pry open the plaque and restore blood flow. In some cases, a small mesh tube (stent) is inserted to keep the artery open.