Concomitant revascularization of intestines during aortoiliac reconstruction: deterrent to catastrophic bowel infarction.

This report points out the necessity for revascularization of the intestines in patients with asymptomatic mesenteric occlusive disease at the time of aortoiliac reconstruction. Emphasis is placed upon the well-being of 15 patients followed up for 2 to 5 years, who underwent concomitant bypass grafting of asymptomatic stenosis or occlusion of the mesenteric arteries, in contrast to the fatal or near fatal outcome of 3 patients who did not receive such corrective measures. Aortomesenteric bypass grafting in conjunction with aortobifemoral bypass grafting or endarterectomy does not involve additional operative exposure or add greatly to the operating time, but may prevent catastrophic bowel infarction resulting from progressive occlusion of the mesenteric arteries.