Aortoesophageal fistula secondary to esophageal self-expandable partially covered metal stent: The first Latin American serie

Abstract

Aortoesophageal fistula (AEF) is a rare but life-threatening complication of esophageal stent placement characterized by the formation of a communication between the aorta and the esophagus, which can result in catastrophic hemorrhage and sepsis, making it a potentially fatal complication that requires prompt diagnosis and management. The surgical treatment strategy for each case should be designed based on the patient's clinical presentation and the availability of endovascular or open-surgical expertise and resources.

The aim of this study is to show the first latinoamerican experience in the treatment of AEF secondary to self-expandable partially covered metal stents (PCSEMS) with a retrospective case series study between January 2018 and April 2023 aimed at evaluating the surgical approach and postoperative outcomes of patients with AEF secondary to PCSEMS placement in 2 centers in Bogota, Colombia. A study with a sample of 2 patients was performed. The two patients were treated using an open surgical approach with laparotomy and left anterolateral thoracotomy.