Aortoenteric fistula | |
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Aorto enteric fistula and aortic dissection of the thoracic aorta. Arrow shows the flap in the aorta. Heterogeneity is blood in the stomach |
An aortoenteric fistula is a connection between the aorta and the intestines, stomach, or esophageus.[1] There can be significant blood loss into the intestines resulting in bloody stool and death.[1] It is usually secondary to an abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. The third or fourth portion of the duodenum is the most common site for aortoenteric fistulas, followed by the jejunum and ileum.[2]
Diagnosis is typically via a CT angiography, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or arteriography.[1] It is part of the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal bleeding.[2]