Carotid cavernous fistula: a rare complication of facial trauma, surgeon should be careful

Abstract

Carotid-cavernous fistula a rare complication of Maxillofacial trauma occurs especially due to fracture of greater wing of sphenoid bone. It is of a different type depending on the flow pattern, severity also follows the flow of blood from internal carotid artery to the cavernous sinus. It features gradual exopthalmos, decrease in vision, later death may ensue in case of high flow lesion. A timely diagnosis and proper referral to the Neurosurgeon and Interventional Radiologist can reduce the chances of cavernous sinus thrombosis. This paper presents two cases of facial trauma reported to our institution, later on diagnosed to be carotid cavernous fistula and their treatment. It also shows different type of CCF, etiology, diagnosis, and Maxillofacial surgeon's role in handling the facial trauma cases.