Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

What is the primary reason for removing the left colon during an inferior mesenteric artery ligation?

1. To prevent cancer

2. To alleviate chronic constipation

3. To improve blood flow

4. To address an obstruction

The correct answer is: To improve blood flow

The primary reason for removing the left colon during an inferior mesenteric artery ligation is to improve blood flow. In this procedure, the inferior mesenteric artery, which supplies blood to the descending colon, sigmoid colon, and part of the rectum, is ligated or cut. This may be performed in cases where there is a need to divert blood flow or manage vascular conditions affecting the colon. By removing the left colon, blood flow can be redirected or improved, allowing for better perfusion to the remaining bowel, especially in patients with ischemic colitis or other vascular insults affecting that region. Improvements in blood flow to the remaining colon might be needed after ligation, especially if blood supply to those segments is compromised. This can alleviate complications associated with inadequate blood supply such as ischemia, perforation, or necrosis. Other options, such as preventing cancer or addressing obstruction, do not primarily relate to the rationale behind ligating the artery and performing a resection of the left colon, whereas alleviating chronic constipation might not necessarily require such an invasive procedure. Hence, improving blood flow is a direct and fundamental concern associated with the surgical intervention described.