Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 30, 2026

Technical Aspects of the Mouse Aortocaval Fistula
Published on: July 11, 2013
Aorto-caval fistula as a complication of ruptured infrarenal aortic aneurysm
Alen Karic1, Emir Mujanovic, Zoran Jerkic
1Cardio-Vascular Clinic. University Clinical Centre Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina. alen_karic@bih.net.ba
Insights
A ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm complicated by an aorto-caval fistula was successfully repaired with direct sutures. This rare complication requires urgent surgical intervention for both the fistula and the aneurysm.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Cardiovascular Surgery
Background:
- Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAAs) are life-threatening emergencies.
- Aorto-caval fistulas are rare but serious complications of rAAAs.
Observation:
- A 71-year-old male presented with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm.
- An aorto-caval fistula was discovered intraoperatively during aneurysm repair.
Findings:
- The aorto-caval fistula was successfully repaired using direct sutures to the aorta.
- The ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm was subsequently repaired with a tube graft.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering aorto-caval fistula in patients with rAAA.
- Prompt surgical repair of aorto-caval fistulas is crucial for patient survival.
- Direct aortic suturing is a viable technique for repairing aorto-caval fistulas.
Abstract:
We present a case of 71 year old man operated in our clinic for ruptured abdominal aneurysm complicated with aorto-caval fistula, which was revealed during the surgery and successfully repaired by direct sutures within the aorta. This is the first record of the aorto-caval fistula that was so far noticed in our clinic. Urgent surgery and repair of the defect conneting aorta and vena cava by direct sutures within the aorta followed by ruptured aneurysm repair with tube graft is only way of treatment. Despite its infrequent occurrence, aorto-caval fistula should always be considered in any case of ruptured abdominal aneurysm.
Related Concept Videos
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Aneurysm I: Introduction
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management
