Acute right colonic ischemia due to traumatic segmental occlusion of a superior mesenteric artery branch: CT findings and case report

Acute mesenteric ischemia is a life-threatening condition associated with high mortality, particularly in cases of delayed diagnosis. In polytrauma patients, diagnosis is especially challenging due to nonspecific clinical presentation and the presence of associated injuries that may mask digestive symptoms.
We report a case of right colonic ischemia secondary to segmental occlusion of a branch of the superior mesenteric artery in a polytraumatized patient. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a segmental arterial filling defect associated with decreased bowel wall enhancement, mural thickening, and mesenteric fat stranding, consistent with early ischemic changes.
This case highlights the importance of systematic evaluation of mesenteric vessels during trauma CT assessment. Early recognition of vascular and bowel perfusion abnormalities allows prompt management and improves patient outcomes.