Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 17, 2025

Technical Aspects of the Mouse Aortocaval Fistula
Published on: July 11, 2013
Aorto-esophageal fistula: successful open surgical management of two cases
Siddharth Pahwa1, Susmit Bhattacharya2, Siddhartha Mukhopadhyay2
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Abstract:
An aorto-esophageal fistula (AEF) is a rare yet life-threatening cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. We report our experience with open surgical management of two cases of AEF. Both cases presented with almost identical presentations: hematemesis and hemodynamic instability. The aorta in the first patient was normal; the defect was small and was repaired with a Dacron patch. The second patient had an aneurysmal aorta, which was replaced with a Dacron graft. Both cases were performed under partial bypass. The esophageal rent in both patients was debrided, primarily closed and buttressed with a vascularized intercostal pedicle. Nonavailability of endovascular personnel and equipment along with hemodynamic instability of the patient influenced our surgical strategy. Long-term follow-up of these patients is necessary to analyze the outcomes of our surgical repair.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical Manifestations:
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care

