Aortoenteric Fistula
**Aortoenteric Fistula: A Comprehensive Overview**
An aortoenteric fistula (AEF) is a rare and life-threatening condition characterized by an abnormal connection between the aorta (the main artery from the heart) and the gastrointestinal tract. This connection can lead to severe bleeding, infection, and organ damage.
**Causes**
* Aortic surgery
* Infection (e.g., aortic graft infection)
* Trauma
* Cancer (e.g., esophageal carcinoma)
**Symptoms**
* Gastrointestinal bleeding (hematemesis, melena)
* Abdominal pain
* Fever
* Weight loss
* Anemia
**Diagnosis**
* Physical examination
* Blood tests (e.g., hemoglobin, white blood cell count)
* Imaging tests (e.g., CT scan, MRI, endoscopy)
**Treatment**
Treatment for AEF is urgent and requires a multidisciplinary approach. Options include:
* Antibiotics to control infection
* Surgical intervention to repair or bypass affected blood vessels
* Endovascular repair (stent placement)
* Palliative care measures to manage symptoms
**Prognosis**
The prognosis of AEF is often poor. The mortality rate can be as high as 50% within the first 30 days. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
**Additional Keywords:**
* Aortic graft; Endovascular aneurysm repair; Gastrointestinal bleeding; Esophageal carcinoma; Trauma; Sepsis
Unveiling Aortoenteric Fistula (AEF): Diagnosis and Treatment Solutions
An aortoenteric fistula is a rare but life threatening complication of aortic surgery requiring immediate surgical repair. Early symptoms include abdominal pain or vomiting blood. A fistula is an abnormal connection between two spaces in your body. An aortoenteric fistula…