Stenosis of the small intestine due to nonocclusive ischemic disease.

Intestinal stenosis following nonocclusive disturbances of mesenteric circulation will probably be encountered with increasing frequency as patients with low blood flow states resulting in transiently ischemic but viable bowel are treated early and successfully. The case reported here clearly documents the temporal sequence of dated cardiogenic shock and the subsequent onset of abdominal pain, culminating in intestinal stenosis and obstruction and necessitating later bowel resection. The pertinent literature has been reviewed. It is suggested that the likelihood of this complication be entertained in high-risk patients and supportive therapy be employed promptly and judiciously.