Intestinal Ischemia in the Elderly

Mesenteric ischemia in the elderly is an uncommon but often fatal disorder for which the prognosis depends entirely on the speed and accuracy of the diagnosis. A high index of suspicion is required as the early signs and symptoms, at a time when ischemic changes are reversible, are typically nonspecific or absent. This article reviews the clinical spectrum of mesenteric ischemia in the elderly with particular emphasis on the varied presentations, evaluation, and management of ischemic disorders of the intestines.