Aorticoduodenal Fistula after Aortic Homograft without Aneurysm Formation

Abstract

SURGICAL treatment of an aneurysm of the abdominal aorta with a homograft or, currently, with prosthetic material has become a well recognized procedure. Both thrombosis and the formation of a new aneurysm have been reported as late complications of homograft replacement. With the proximity of the retroperitoneal duodenum to the proximal line of anastomosis, it is not surprising that an aneurysm developing in this area could result in an aorticoduodenal fistula. Clinical suspicion of such a fistula is of great importance, for time may permit surgical correction.¹ Furthermore, the possibility of an aorticoduodenal fistula must be considered in the differential . . .