ischemia
Pronunciation: is-KEE-mee-ah
Inadequate blood supply to tissues resulting in oxygen deprivation and potential cell death.
Full Definition
Ischemia is a pathological condition characterized by insufficient blood flow to tissues, resulting in decreased oxygen delivery and metabolic compromise. In acute care surgery, ischemia commonly affects organs such as the bowel, extremities, or myocardium due to trauma, vascular compromise, or surgical complications. Acute bowel ischemia may manifest as abdominal pain out of proportion to physical findings, while extremity ischemia presents with the classic 'five P's': pain, pallor, pulselessness, paresthesias, and paralysis. Time-sensitive intervention is crucial as prolonged ischemia leads to irreversible tissue necrosis. Recognition and prompt treatment are essential to prevent organ loss or death.
Usage
Usage note: British spelling is 'ischaemia.' Specify anatomical location and duration when documented.
In Context
- "The patient developed acute limb ischemia following femoral artery injury." — Trauma consultation
- "Intraoperative findings suggested bowel ischemia requiring resection of nonviable segments." — Operative report