Aortocaval fistula complicating abdominal aortic aneurysm: Case report and literature review

Aortocaval fistula is a rare complication of abdominal aortic aneurysm involving less than 1% of all abdominal aortic aneurysms. The diagnosis is difficult, and preoperative identification can be challenging. We describe an interesting case of a 72‐year‐old man presenting with acute‐onset dyspnea who was found to have an aortocaval fistula secondary to a large abdominal aortic aneurysm. The clinical features that exemplify aortocaval fistula are discussed and the literature reviewed. © 1996 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.