Endovascular Management of Primary Aortoenteric Fistulae

Abstract

Primary aortoenteric fistula (AEF) is a rare clinical entity which is life-threatening. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment play a crucial role in the management. Minimally invasive approaches such as endovascular treatment are newer options in treatment. We describe three patients with primary AEF successfully managed with endovascular treatment. The presentation of primary AEF may be acute, with an exsanguinating unstable patient who would be unfit to undergo a major laparotomy. In such instances, endovascular treatment can be used as the initial option to control the bleeding. Endovascular treatment is a valuable treatment option to control bleeding when the morbidity of open repair is high.

Keywords

• Aortoenteric fistula
• endovascular
• primary