Superior mesenteric angiography and blood flow measurement following intra-arterial injection of prostaglandin E1.

The hemodynamic effects of intra-material prostaglandin E1 (PE1) administered via the angiographic catheter were evaluated in 14 patients. Blood flow in the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) after PGE1 infusion was compared with control SMA blood flow as measured by the "spillover" angiographic reflux method, using a specially designed injector/film-changer system. In all patients, SMA blood flow increased by more than 50% and visualization of the SMA and portal vein was enhanced.