Abdominal aortic aneurysm with aorto-vena caval fistula and retroperitoneal rupture. Report of a case

One successfully treated case of ruptured aortic aneurysm with aorto-caval fistula is reported. At admission a large pulsating mass was present in the abdomen, and a prominent continuous bruit was heard by stethoscopy. Surgery revealed an aortic aneurysm with a retroperitoneal rupture and a large aorto-caval communication as well. The fistula was closed with continuous sutures, and after excision of the aneurysm the arterial continuity was re-established using a "Millinit" dacron graft. The postoperative course was uneventful.