The influence of respiration on criteria for transabdominal duplex examination of the splanchnic arteries in patients with suspected chronic splanchnic ischemia

This study proposes new criteria related to respiration for duplex ultrasound imaging of the mesenteric arteries in patients with symptoms suggestive of CMS. It emphasizes the importance of taking into account the effect of respiration on duplex parameters. The lower sensitivity and specificity in our study compared with other studies puts into perspective the position of duplex imaging in the work-up of patients with suspected CMS. Duplex results should be used as a guide, with a low threshold giving a higher negative predictive value and, consequently, a lower positive predictive value.