Vascular Plug Embolization of a Superior Mesenteric Arteriovenous Fistula: Case Report and Literature Review of Endovascular Treatment

INTRODUCTION: Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) rarely occurs in the portal venous system. Aetiologies include iatrogenic, surgical, and penetrating trauma of the abdomen. Clinical manifestations of superior mesenteric portal arteriovenous fistula (SMPAVF) are right heart failure, mesenteric ischaemia, or signs of portal hypertension. REPORT: The case of a 42 year old man with a history of Crohn's disease who had a delayed symptomatic mesenteric portal AVF, occurring 20 years after ileocecal resection, which was subsequently managed by endovascular approach is reported. The patient presented with post-prandial abdominal pain for almost one year, and dyspnoea New York Heart Association stage II. There were no signs of portal hypertension. Pre-operative contrast enhanced computed tomography showed a high flow SMPAVF, with a short and wide neck (9 mm × 16 mm) at the level of the last collateral of the superior mesenteric artery. It was associated with a large aneurysm of the mesenteric vein. Vascular plug embolisation (Amplatzer 18 × 18 mm, Abbott, Chicago, IL, USA) by femoral access allowed exclusion of the SMPAVF and preserved arterial flow in the distal collaterals. During follow up, the patient developed portal vein thrombosis and required therapeutic anticoagulation for six months. DISCUSSION: In most cases, endovascular approaches are preferred in the management of SMPAVF. Endovascular approaches are based on minimally invasive techniques including embolisation (coiling or plug) and covered stenting. Vascular plug embolisation of SMPAVF is feasible and seems to be an effective technique, with the advantage of saving collaterals. Therapeutic anticoagulation should be considered post-operatively in cases with venous dilatation and reduced flow linked to exclusion of the AVF.