Mycotic aneurysm of the superior mesenteric artery.

The superior mesenteric artery is a frequent site of mycotic aneurysm formation. With the increasing popularity of parenteral drug abuse the incidence of superior mesenteric aneurysms is likely to increase. It should be suspected in any patient who has a history of bacterial endocarditis, sepsis, and abdominal pain. Abdominal CT scanning and visceral angiography are most useful in establishing the diagnosis, and surgical therapy should ensue with minimal delay. The various intraoperative methods of eradicating this lesion are described, with a review of the literature and report of successful management of one such case.