Aortocaval fistula associated with aneurysm of the abdominal aorta: current management using autotransfusion...

Two patients with aortocaval fistula associated with abdominal aortic aneurysm were managed successfully using a patient care plan which includes proper monitoring of the hemodynamic state, careful dissection of the aneurysm, and return of blood loss by autotransfusion while the patient is fully anticoagulated with heparin. This unusual and serious problem in vascular surgery can be managed in an orderly and controlled fashion using these techniques.