Acute mesenterial ischemia in cardiac surgery: Case report and literature review

Introduction: Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) in cardiac surgery is a rare condition, associated with low incidence (0.2-0.4%) and very high mortality (up to 95%). Advanced age and coexisting morbidity, such as acute myocardial infarction or atrial fibrillation are the known risk factors. Case report: We are presenting 76 years old patient with aortic valve replacement and double coronary artery bypass grafting followed by hemodynamic instability and lactic acidosis on the first postoperative day. Diagnosis of AMI was made by exclusion. We discuss diagnostic and therapeutic approach applied regarding existing data from the literature. Conclusion: Diagnosis of AMI after cardiac surgery demands high level of suspicion. Early diagnosis is of vital importance. Systematical approach and early surgical exploration affects the overall outcome