[Aorto-digestive fistulae. X-ray computed tomographic diagnosis]

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Radiology

Background:

• Aortoenteric fistula is a rare complication following aortic graft surgery.
• It presents a significant risk of mortality.
• Early recognition is crucial for patient survival.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of considering aortoenteric fistula in critically ill patients.
• To emphasize the diagnostic role of computed tomography (CT) in identifying this condition.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical presentations and diagnostic findings.
• Focus on computed tomography (CT) imaging characteristics.
• Correlation of imaging findings with clinical status.

Main Results:

• Aortoenteric fistula is characterized by the abnormal connection between an aortic graft and the gastrointestinal tract.
• CT scans may reveal contrast medium entering the adjacent intestine from the aortic graft.
• This finding is particularly relevant in critically ill and infected patients.

Conclusions:

• Aortoenteric fistula must be suspected in critically ill patients with signs of infection post-aortic graft surgery.
• CT imaging is a key diagnostic tool for detecting aortoenteric fistulas.
• Prompt diagnosis and management are essential to improve outcomes.