Direct aspiration using rapid-exchange and low-profile device for acute thrombo-embolic occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery.

Acute thrombo-embolic occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is potentially fatal vascular emergency that requires rapid restoration of mesenteric blood flow as well as early diagnosis. Selective thrombolysis has been employed for this life-threatening event. Although failed thrombolysis is a well known phenomenon, which is directly connected with bowel necrosis, emergent laparotomy, and patient death, little progress has been made in its treatment strategy. Recently, direct aspiration using rapid-exchange and low-profile aspiration device has been reported as a simple, safe, and effective strategy to thrombus in coronary artery. We describe the utility of direct aspiration using this sort of aspiration device for failed thrombolysis of SMA thrombo-embolism.