Ischaemic colitis

Abstract

Abstract Ischaemic colitis is the most common form of intestinal ischaemia. It occurs most often at watershed areas of the colon due to a low-flow state. The gold-standard imaging modality for diagnosis of ischaemic colitis is computerized tomography (CT), along with endoscopy to confirm the radiographic findings. Most patients recover with non-operative management with fluid resuscitation, bowel rest, and antibiotics. Surgical intervention is reserved for progression to full-thickness ischaemia, gangrene, perforation, or failure to improve with non-operative management. Overall mortality is around 13% and significantly higher in those who require surgery. Recurrence also occurs relatively often, in up to 10% of patients. The most common long-term sequelae of ischaemic colitis that may ultimately require surgical correction is the development of a colonic stricture.