Abdominal aortic aneurysm causing duodenal obstruction: two case reports and review of the literature

Abstract

Obstruction of the upper gastrointestinal tract caused by an abdominal aortic aneurysm (aortoduodenal syndrome) has been rarely reported. The typical presentation includes protracted emesis in a patient with a pulsatile abdominal mass. Clinical features of weight loss, abdominal pain, and distention are present less frequently. The diagnosis is suggested by findings on computed tomography scans, and may be confirmed with upper gastrointestinal contrast material-enhanced studies or upper endoscopy. Aortic aneurysmorrhaphy is curative, and should be undertaken after gastrointestinal decompression and correction of fluid and electrolyte disturbances. We report 2 cases of abdominal aortic aneurysm producing upper gastrointestinal obstruction, and provide a review of the literature relevant to this clinical syndrome.