Endovascular Management of Bleeding Aortoenteric Fistula May be Feasible as a Definitive Repair

Abstract

Aorto-enteric fistula (AEF) is a complication with devastating sequelae and significant morbidity. Although open surgery remains primary treatment endovascular approach may be used as a temporary bridge but rarely as a definitive therapy. We present a case of a patient who presented with a secondary AEF, due to hemodynamic instability we chose to treat the fistula with an aortic endograft. The patient underwent bowel resection due to bowel obstruction with omental patch over the aortic rent, 6 weeks of antibiotics. Patient is now at 8-year follow-up without evidence of infection. Although there is scarce literature on this topic, endovascular treatment of bleeding AEF may be feasible as a definitive option. Due to high risk of graft infection we recommend close observation and suppressive antibiotics.