Embolization of a Mesenteric Arteriovenous  Fistula

A 43-year-old man who underwent small-bowel resection 26 years earlier presented with recurrent abdominal pain. A large arteriovenous fistula between the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and vein was diagnosed by computed tomography (CT; Fig 1). The patient refused surgery, so endovascular treatment was performed. The initial superior mesenteric angiogram confirmed the CT findings, with no portal vein thrombosis or features of portal hypertension (Fig 2). The SMA was cannulated, and a 14-mm AMPLATZER Vascular Plug (AGA Medical, Golden Valley, Minnesota) was successfully deployed within the fistula, as demonstrated on completion angiography, with preservation of all other branches of the SMA (Fig 3).
Source: Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology : JVIR - Category: Radiology Authors: Tags: Images in IR Source Type: research