A case of aortopulmonary fistula caused by a huge thoracic aortic aneurysm

Korean Circ J. 2009 May;39(5):209-12. doi: 10.4070/kcj.2009.39.5.209. Epub 2009 May 28.

Abstract

Aortopulmonary fistula is an uncommon but often fatal condition resulting as a late complication of an aortic aneurysm. The most common cause is erosion of a false aneurysm of the descending thoracic aorta into the pulmonary artery, resulting in the development of a left-to-right shunt and leading to acute pulmonary edema and right heart failure. We report an our experience with aortopulmonary fistula as a rare complication associated with thoracic aortic aneurysm and high output heart failure.

Keywords: Aortic aneurysm; Fistula; Heart failure.