aortoesophageal fistula aortoesophageal fistula an aortoesophageal fistula is a rarely-occurring abnormal fistula connection between the aorta and the esophagus. it may be caused by a problem in the aorta or in the esophagus, and must be repaired with surgery to avoid hemorrhage. common causes include surgery on the aorta in adults, and ingestion of a button battery in children. aortoesophageal fistulaspecialtygastroenterology