# Contained Rupture of a Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm: A Rare and Life-Threatening Cause of Dysphagia

## TL;DR

A rare case of swallowing difficulty caused by a ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm is successfully treated with a minimally invasive procedure.

## Contribution

This case report highlights a rare and life-threatening cause of dysphagia successfully treated with thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair.

## Key findings

- Dysphagia aortica due to contained rupture of a thoracic aortic aneurysm is a rare but fatal condition if untreated.
- Thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair can be an effective treatment for acute cases of aortic dysphagia.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent fatal outcomes in such cases.

## Abstract

Dysphagia is commonly seen in the elderly and has both benign and malignant causes. A difficulty in swallowing due to the esophageal compression by the aorta, or dysphagia aortica, is a rare entity, little described in literature. However, diagnostic error or diagnostic and treatment delays of aortic dysphagia can be fatal. Herein, we report a case of dysphagia aortica caused by the contained rupture of a descending aneurysmatic thoracic aorta, presenting at the emergency department with acute dysphagia and diffuse chest pain, successfully treated by thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair.