Endovascular stent-graft treatment for aortoesophageal fistula induced by an esophageal fishbone: Two cases report

BACKGROUND: Aortoesophageal fistula (AEF) induced by esophageal fishbones is a rare complication of esophageal foreign bodies and is very difficult to treat. Although the current view suggests that endovascular stent-graft treatment is useful for AEF, whether a subsequent thoracic operation is necessary remains controversial. The purpose of this report is to describe our experience using endovascular stent-graft treatment without combined thoracic operations for the treatment of AEF in two specific cases. CASE SUMMARY: We presented two cases of patients complaining of retrosternal discomfort treated in our department for an aortoesophageal fistula caused by the accidental ingestion of a fishbone. The two patients were effectively managed with combined means of endoscopic, medical (broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, fasting, gastrointestinal decompression, etc.) and endovascular stent-graft treatment. The main difference in treatment was that the first patient presented with hematemesis after endoscopic removal of the fishbone. Subsequently, the patient underwent endovascular stent-graft treatment. The second case was managed with endoscopic removal of the fishbone with simultaneous endovascular stent-graft treatment, without any signs of hematemesis or melena. Both patients had successful postoperative management and were discharged home. Long-term follow-up is ongoing. CONCLUSION: The treatment decision-making process should depend on the patients’ specific situations. Our practice indicates that endovascular stent-graft treatment without combined thoracic operations could be a valuable alternative in selected patients.