New Computed Tomographic Signs of Aortoenteric Fistula

Successful preoperative diagnosis of aortoenteric fistula is often difficult. Clinical findings, roentgenography, angiography, and endoscopy have been used in diagnosis with only partial success. Newer techniques of gallium citrate Ga 67 scanning, ultrasonography, and computed tomographic (CT) scanning have been used in recent years to establish the diagnosis of aortic graft infection or aortoenteric fistula. In two cases, the CT scan clearly established the diagnosis of secondary aortoenteric fistula, as well as two previously unreported signs of aortoenteric fistula: intraluminal aortic gas and paraprosthetic extravasation of contrast medium.