Contrast-enhanced ultrasonographic findings of non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia: a case series

Purpose Diagnosis of non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia (NOMI) is difficult, with diagnostic imaging being mainly performed using angiography or contrast-enhanced computed tomography. Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) offers an alternative diagnostic method, although diagnosis of NOMI using CEUS is not common. In this report, we review CEUS findings in a series of patients with NOMI. Methods The records of patients diagnosed with NOMI who underwent a surgical procedure in our institution between January 2015 and February 2020 were retrospectively assessed. Grayscale ultrasonography and CEUS findings were evaluated. Results Ten patients (mean age 65 +/- 25 years, 7 men) were studied. Grayscale ultrasonography revealed bowel dilatation, the presence of intestinal pneumatosis, portal venous gas, bowel wall thickening, and no or decreased peristalsis. A CEUS finding of note was a partial lack of enhancement of the bowel wall. Conclusion In a small case series of 10 patients with surgically/histopathology confirmed NOMI, partial lack of ultrasound contrast-enhancement of the bowel wall was observed.