Acute Superior Mesenteric Artery Embolism treated with Percutaneous Mechanical Thrombectomy: Preliminary application and Experience

Abstract

Background: Acute superior mesenteric artery embolism is a life-threatening disease and the prognosis is very poor. Few reports have described the application of Percutaneous Mechanical Thrombectomy in Acute superior mesenteric artery embolism. In the article, we show a series of cases treated with Percutaneous Mechanical Thrombectomy and share our experience. Methods: Review and analyze seven patients with acute superior mesenteric artery embolism treated by Angiojet Ultra thrombectomy system in our institution. Based on the literature, we summarize the diagnosis, treatment and surgical experience of acute superior mesenteric artery embolism. Results: Percutaneous Mechanical Thrombectomy were achieved successfully in all the patients without surgical complication occurred. Five patients’ symptoms relieved significantly and smoothly discharged from the hospital. Two patients still complained of abdominal pain after operation. One patient underwent surgical laparotomy and intestinal resection and the other one abandoned surgical treatment. During the first six months of follow-up, six patients were free of any clinical symptoms or signs and one patient who refused laparotomy died two days later with septic shock. Conclusion: Percutaneous Mechanical Thrombectomy by Angiojet Ultra thrombectomy system is a safe, effective and minimally invasive method in the initial stage of acute superior mesenteric artery embolism. We believe Percutaneous Mechanical Thrombectomy could be a promising alternative in selected cases. Furthermore, large sample data and long term follow-up are needed to verify its effect.