Primary aortoesophageal fistula: case report

Abstract

An aortoesophageal fistula is an abnormal communication between the aorta and the esophagus, causing potentially fatal upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The objective of this article is to report a successful case of treatment with a single aortic endovascular approach and conservative treatment of the esophagus in a case of aortoesophageal fistula. An 81-year-old patient was admitted with signs of massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding and, after tests, an aortoesophageal fistula was diagnosed. Endovascular treatment was chosen and performed successfully. The patient was discharged after 9 days in hospital and remained in outpatient follow-up until the condition completely resolved. Early diagnosis is extremely important, since this is a fatal condition if left untreated. It is hoped that this report contributes content of relevance to the scientific community.

Keywords:
esophageal fistula; gastrointestinal bleeding; endovascular procedures