# Complex case of acute mesenteric ischemia in a patient with atrial fibrillation: A radiologic -surgical collaboration for timely intervention

## TL;DR

This study shows that CT angiography helps diagnose and treat bowel blood flow blockages in patients with heart rhythm issues, improving outcomes when used early.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates the effectiveness of CT angiography and radiologic-surgical collaboration in managing acute mesenteric ischemia.

## Key findings

- CT angiography correctly identified AMI in 92% of cases.
- Early surgical intervention was facilitated in 75% of patients with an 80% success rate.
- Delayed interventions increased morbidity and mortality (p = 0.003).

## Abstract

Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI), often caused by embolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), can lead to bowel necrosis
without timely intervention. This study evaluated the role of CT angiography (CTA) in diagnosing AMI and its impact on surgical outcomes
through radiologic-surgical collaboration in 100 AF patients. CTA demonstrated a high diagnostic accuracy, correctly identifying AMI in
92% of cases (p < 0.001) and facilitated early surgical intervention in 75% of patients, achieving an 80% success rate. Delayed
interventions were associated with increased morbidity and mortality (p = 0.003). These findings highlight the effectiveness of CTA in
diagnosing AMI and underscore the importance of timely radiologic-surgical collaboration for optimal patient outcomes.