Colon ischemia: A comprehensive review

The clinical and endoscopic features of colon ischemia (CI) are non-specific. CI is correctly identified at the time of presentation in only 9% of patients is. The true incidence is likely underestimated because many mild cases resolve spontaneously without medical treatment. Furthermore, since most cases of CI are transient, and no specific cause is detected they are often considered to be “idiopathic”. In the setting of severe CI correct diagnosis and prompt recognition and therapy as well as identification of underlying causes are crucial for a favourable outcome. Although less severe, mild cases may present with similar symptoms, the prognosis and management are completely different and managed conservatively rather than with surgery. Unfortunately, data from most studies and current guidelines do not provide recommendations on the long-term management of CI or about the need for endoscopic follow-up to detect the development chronic, recurrent and/or ischemic colonic strictures. In this review, we focus on the definition of CI, its aetiology, and patterns of presentation. We highlight the pharmacological and/or endoscopic management as determined severity of disease that allow for improved outcomes. Prompt recognition and treatment using a multidisciplinary approach are essential for successful management of severe CI because mortality rates are significantly higher when the diagnosis is delayed.