Aberrant left subclavian artery-esophageal fistula in a patient with a prolonged use of nasogastric tube: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Arterial-esophageal fistula is a rare but potentially fatal complication. Right aortic arch with aberrant left subclavian artery is a rare congenital vascular anomaly that can cause esophageal compression, particularly when the proximal portion of the aberrant subclavian artery forms a Kommerell’s diverticulum. Prolonged use of a nasogastric tube can cause pressure necrosis of the esophagus. We report a patient with massive gastrointestinal bleeding secondary to aberrant left subclavian artery-esophageal fistula after a prolonged use of nasogastric tube. A high index of suspicion is essential for better prognosis when a patient with congenital aortic arch anomaly shows upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage.