The patient, who was previously healthy with no history of smoking, alcohol consumption, or significant medical conditions, had recently started exercising due to a sedentary lifestyle. The unusual symptoms began during a workout session where he performed several high-intensity sit-ups.

On 25/6, a representative from Thanh Nhan Hospital reported that a CT scan revealed a complete blockage in the middle segment of the superior mesenteric artery, the main blood vessel supplying most of the small intestine and part of the large intestine. Doctors believe that the intense sit-ups likely caused trauma to the vessel wall, leading to a dissection of the superior mesenteric artery.

This condition occurs when the inner layer of a blood vessel wall tears, creating a "false lumen." Blood flowing into this area forms a clot, compressing the true lumen and severely reducing blood supply to the intestines. Without sufficient oxygen and nutrients, the patient can develop acute mesenteric ischemia, a critical surgical emergency. Delays can lead to intestinal necrosis, requiring surgical removal of the damaged segment and potentially threatening the patient's life.

The medical team successfully recanalized the blocked artery, inserting interventional tools into the true lumen of the artery and placing a stent to restore blood flow to the intestines.

Doctor Nguyen Duy Thinh, Deputy Head of the Department of Diagnostic Imaging, advises that exercise should be appropriate for one's physical condition, performed with correct technique, and gradually increased in intensity over time. Individuals should not be complacent when experiencing unusual symptoms after exercise, such as severe abdominal pain that persists despite rest, nausea, vomiting, or bloating. These could be warning signs of serious complications requiring prompt medical attention.

Thuy Quynh