There is a lack of population-based studies on acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI). We have therefore performed a nationwide epidemiological study in Estonia, addressing incidence, demographics, interventions and mortality of AMI.

A retrospective population-based review was conducted of all adult cases of AMI accrued from the digital Estonian Health Insurance Fund and Causes of Death Registry for 2016–2020 based on international classification of diseases (ICD-10) diagnostic codes and procedure codes (NOMESCO).

Overall, 577 cases of AMI were identified—an annual incidence of 8.7 per 100,000. The median age was 79 (range 32–104) and 57% were female. Predominating comorbidities included hypertensive disease (81%), atherosclerosis (67%), and atrial fibrillation (52%). The majority of cases (60%) were caused by superior mesenteric artery occlusion (thrombosis 54%, embolism 12%, and unclear 34%). Inferior mesenteric artery occlusion occurred in 7%, non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia in 7%, venous thrombosis in 4%, whereas the type remained unclear in 21% of cases. 40% of patients received intervention (revascularization and/or intestinal resection) and 13% active non-operative treatment. In 21% an exploratory laparotomy or laparoscopy revealed unsalvageable bowel prompting end-of-life care, which was the only management in a further 25% of cases.

The population-based annual incidence of AMI in Estonia was 8.7 per 100,000 during the study period. The overall hospital mortality and 1 year mortality were 64% and 74%, respectively. In the 53% of patients who received active treatment hospital mortality was 32% and 1 year all-cause mortality was 51%.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT04867499.