[Diagnostic and therapeutic role of angiography in acute vascular insufficiency of the superior mesenteric artery].

Sixteen patients were studied with acute arterial ischemia of the superior mesenteric artery: 2 thrombosis, 8 embolisms, and 6 non-occlusive ischemias. Six patients had intra-arterial selective perfusion of papaverine. Angiographic patterns of acute arterial ischemia of the superior mesenteric artery are described. The technique of intra-arterial injection of papaverine (fast bolus followed, if needed, by slow perfusion) is also described. The diagnostic value of plain abdominal radiography and arteriography, and the therapeutical value of pharmacoangiography are discussed.