Aortic balloon control of a traumatic aortoenteric fistula after damage control laparotomy: a case report

Aortoenteric fistula is a rare complication of abdominal trauma. We present a case of a patient with multiple gunshot wounds to the abdomen and thorax in whom control of injury required staged operations. An aortoenteric fistula developed, presenting a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The operative control of aortic bleeding was by a retroperitoneal approach to the aorta and facilitated by the use of percutaneous aortic balloon catheters. The patient survived to leave hospital. This case highlights a rare trauma complication, the use of "damage control" for the severely injured abdomen and the technique of intra-arterial balloon control of bleeding from inaccessible locations.