Vaskulárna medicína 2/2023

Rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm with aortocaval fistula

Introduction: Under the term aneurysm we understand the pathological expansion of a vessel with clearly defined boundaries. Rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm is classified as a sudden abdominal event, immediately threatening the patient‘s life. We define an aortocaval fistula as a communication between aneurysm and vena cava inferior, caused by erosion of the vena cava inferior wall by the aneurysm sac itself. Case description: In our case report, we present the case of a patient with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm with an associated complication - an aortocaval fistula. Thanks to rigorous preoperative diagnosis, we identified this complication in time, and were able to prepare for a safe operation. Conclusion: In patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm with associated aortocaval fistula, there are often clear clinical signs in the foreground, indicating this diagnosis. To confirm an aortocaval fistula, it is necessary to complete a diagnostic imaging examination, most often a CT angiography. In case of necessary surgery, we can thus prevent many complications.

Keywords: abdominal aortic aneurysm, aortocaval fistula, rupture