Prediction of intestinal viability using Doppler ultrasound technics.

The determination of intestinal viability intraoperatively remains difficult. Intestinal blood flow can be demonstrated in the serosa and mesentery-bowel junction by use of the Doppler ultrasound flow detector. The presence of flow in these areas after an ischemic episode correlates well with ultimate viability of the intestine. This technic may be useful clinically to assist in determining viability and the limits of resection of previously ischemic intestine.