He couldn't eat. It was the warning sign of a rare condition
Summary
Ed Langevin, a retired grandfather, developed severe eating difficulties due to a rare condition called mesenteric ischemia, which blocks blood flow to the small intestine. After a minimally invasive surgery to place a stent in a blocked artery, he initially improved but later experienced complications that were also treated by his doctor.Key Facts
- Ed Langevin had trouble eating and lost 20 pounds in three months due to pain and fullness after meals.
- Doctors performed many tests before diagnosing mesenteric ischemia, a condition where arteries to the small intestine are narrowed or blocked.
- There are two types of mesenteric ischemia: acute (sudden) and chronic (develops over time); Langevin had the chronic form.
- The condition can cause serious problems like pain, malnutrition, and damage to the intestines.
- Dr. Gabriel Wallace performed a short, minimally invasive surgery placing a stent to open the blocked artery and improve blood flow.
- Langevin was able to eat normally after surgery and went home the same day.
- About a year later, Langevin had new symptoms caused by scarring compressing the stent, which is a known complication.
- Ongoing medical care and monitoring are needed for patients with mesenteric ischemia and stents.
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