Abstract

Aortoenteric fistula is a pathological communication between the aorta and any portion of the gastrointestinal tract. It is a rare cause of upper or lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Clinical presentation may vary from a “herald” bleed to a life-threatening deadly bleeding if left untreated. Primary aortoenteric fistula is usually caused by an untreated abdominal aortic aneurysm, whereas secondary aortoenteric fistula occurs as a complication of an abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Diagnosis is often difficult and delayed. Initial diagnostic tests may include computerized tomography scan and esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Urgent surgery is still the recommended treatment. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive update on the type, diagnosis, management, and prognosis of aortoenteric fistulas.

Keywords: Aortoenteric fistula; Abdominal aortic aneurysm; Gastrointestinal bleed

Abbreviations: AEF: Aortoenteric Fistula; PAEF: Primary Aorto enteric Fistula; SAEF: Secondary Aorto Enteric Fistula; AAA: Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm; GI: Gastro Intestinal; EGD: Esophago Gastro Duodenoscopy