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Ruptured aortic pseudo-aneurysm: a rare presentation as aortocaval fistula
The Journal of Cardiovascular Surgery
|April 1, 1997
Summary
A rare aortocaval fistula developed in an 81-year-old woman seven years after abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. This complication stemmed from a ruptured pseudoaneurysm, highlighting a potential long-term risk after aortic surgery.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Aortic Aneurysm Repair
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
Background:
- Pseudoaneurysms are rare complications following abdominal aortic replacement, occurring in less than 1% of patients.
- Aortocaval fistulas are uncommon, typically associated with ruptured aortic aneurysms or trauma.
Observation:
- An 81-year-old woman presented with abdominal pain and syncope seven years post-infrarenal aortic aneurysm repair.
- Imaging revealed a large retroaortocaval pseudoaneurysm that had ruptured into the inferior vena cava.
Findings:
- Computed tomography with contrast suggested the diagnosis of an aortocaval fistula.
- Color Doppler ultrasound was unable to confirm the diagnosis.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but serious delayed complication of abdominal aortic aneurysm repair.
- It underscores the importance of considering pseudoaneurysm rupture and aortocaval fistula in patients with delayed symptoms after aortic surgery.