Mesenteric artery disease is the narrowing of one or more of the arteries in the abdomen that supple blood the the abdominal organs. When these arteries become narrowed this can lead to abdominal pain after eating, inflammations of the intestines, and tissue damage. At West Michigan Cardiology we offer a variety mesenteric artery disease screening and treatment options. Screening for mesenteric artery disease starts with a thorough physical exam. If indicated an abdominal ultrasound can be performed in our office. This is an external ultrasound to assess the blood flow within the mesenteric arteries. If narrowing is suspected the next step is a CT scan of the abdomen or and abdominal angiogram.

A abdominal aortogram is a minimally invasive procedure done in the hospital. During this procedure an small catheter is placed in an artery within the groin. This catheter is advanced up to the affected abdominal arteries and contrast dye is injected. This allows the cardiologist to view the mesenteric arteries in real time under fluoroscopy. If a severe narrowing is found the doctor will then open the blockage with a specialized balloon. A stent can then placed in the artery to keep it open. Typically patients do not need to stay in the hospital overnight following this procedure.