Angioarchitecture and Associated Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas of the Superior Petrosal Sinus and Petrosal Vein

Abstract

The superior petrosal sinus and petrosal vein are important drainage routes for the posterior cranial fossa, with some variations and collateral vessels. An anterolateral-type tentorial dural arteriovenous fistula, which occurs around the petrosal vein, often develops aggressive symptoms due to venous reflux to the brainstem and cerebellum. Neuroendovascular treatment of this fistula is usually challenging because transarterial embolization has a high risk and indications for transvenous embolization are limited. In the cavernous sinus and transverse sinus/sigmoid sinus dural arteriovenous fistulas, venous reflux to the petrosal vein is dangerous, and a treatment strategy with the occlusion of the petrosal vein is indispensable. Furthermore, attention should be paid to venous approaches through the superior petrosal sinus.