Aortoesophageal fistula and arch pseudoaneurysm after removing of a swallowed chicken bone: a case report of one-stage hybrid treatment

BACKGROUND Aortoesophageal fistula (AEF) and arch pseudoaneurysm are rare complications induced by a foreign body, and considerable controversy remains regarding the appropriate management strategies. We herein report a successful one-stage hybrid treatment in a patient with AEF and arch pseudoaneurysm. CASE PRESENTATION The patient, a 40-year-old man, presented to the emergency room because of intense retrosternal discomfort for 3 days and hematemesis for 3 h. The esophagoscopy and thoracic enhanced computed tomography (CT) showed two irregular mural ulcers in the esophagus and a large saccular pseudoaneurysm at the aortic isthmus, respectively. The laboratory examinations confirmed no widespread inflammation and infection. We have successfully performed a successful one-stage hybrid treatment for this patient. Six-month follow-up shows the patient is in good condition and the esophagoscopy reveals the two mural ulcers had completely healed. CONCLUSION The treatment decision-making process should depend upon the patients' specific situations. Our case suggest the one-stage hybrid treatment could be an valuable alternative in some selected patients.