The Physical Examination Does Matter: A Case of Spontaneous Aortocaval Fistula

The Physical Examination Does Matter: A Case of Spontaneous Aortocaval Fistula

A spontaneous aortocaval fistula is a rare complication of abdominal aortic aneurysms. In 50 percent of the patients, it presents with the classic signs of a pulsatile abdominal mass, continuous bruit, and low back pain. A high degree of clinical suspicion and a well-performed physical examination are important for its timely diagnosis.

Spontaneous Aortocaval Fistula: A Case Report and Literature Review

Spontaneous aortocaval fistula is a rare complication of abdominal aortic aneurysms. We describe two cases of spontaneous aortocaval fistula. The first patient is a woman who was admitted with abdominal pain and pulsatile abdominal mass. Another patient was a man admitted with progressive abdominal pain and hypotension. Computed tomography (CT) scan in both patients showed an infrarenal aortic ...

spontaneous aortocaval fistula: a case report and literature review

Spontaneous aortocaval fistula--preoperative diagnosis and management.

Spontaneous aortocaval fistula is an uncommon complication of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. This report details two cases of this condition presenting with symptoms attributable to arteriovenous shunting. Pain was not a prominent feature so that attention was not initially drawn to the abdomen. Diagnosis and management of the condition are discussed.

Aortocaval Fistula

A 77-year-old Caucasian male with a history of hypertension presented with sudden onset of lower back pain, nausea, and vomiting. Initial vital signs included a pulse rate of 104 beats/minute, a blood pressure of 117/72 mm Hg, and pulse oximetry of 95% on room air. Abdominal examination revealed a midline pulsatile mass and bruit. The patient had bilateral lower extremity edema, which was worse...