Elsevier, European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, 3(36), p. 297-299, 2008
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2008.05.004
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The aorto-esophageal fistula is a well-recognized and potentially fatal complication of thoracic aortic surgery. Several strategies regarding its prevention and subsequent management have been described. We report the management of a large midthoracic fistula complicating redo thoraco-abdominal aortic surgery by the placement of covered stents in the aorta and esophagus to successfully exclude the lesion. While long term durability is uncertain, endografts and long-term antibiotics provide a therapeutic option for palliation in patients unfit for immediate surgery.