Emergency CT scan for the diagnosis of superior mesenteric artery embolism. Report of 2 cases.

Two patients with superior mesenteric artery embolism are presented. In both cases, contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) demonstrated enhancement of the superior mesenteric artery roots and non-enhanced filling defect in the more distal part of the artery. Immediate extraction of the embolus saved 1 patient but massive bowel resection was necessary in another. Mesenteric arteriography has been the golden standard for the diagnosis of mesenteric occlusion, but it is usually time-consuming and not universally available. On the other hand, CT equipment is in widespread use and the examination can be performed much more easily. Patients with unexplained acute abdominal pain should undergo CT examination and be screened for mesenteric arterial occlusion.