Embolization Of Carotid-cavernous Fistula Research Articles

Venous outflow-targeted coil embolization of direct carotid-cavernous fistulas.

Coil embolization is the mainstay treatment for carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs). However, few studies have reported entire occlusion of engorged veins to interrupt venous outflow. We report our experience with venous outflow-targeted coil embolization of direct CCFs. We retrospectively reviewed all the patients diagnosed with direct CCFs treated with venous outflow-targeted coil embolization between November 2013 and February 2020. Venous outflow-targeted coil embolization of the CCFs was performed as follows. First, transarterial stent-assisted coil embolization of CCFs was performed. If the venous outflow to the engorged veins persisted after transarterial stent-assisted coil embolization, entire occlusion of the engorged veins and additional coil packing within the cavernous sinus were performed to interrupt the venous outflow. Ten patients had undergone venous outflow-targeted coil embolization, 6 women (60%) and 4 men (40%). Transfemoral cerebral angiography showed high-flow, direct CCFs in all the patients. Venous outflow occurred through the superior ophthalmic vein (SOV) in all the patients and was completely interrupted by the entire occlusion of the engorged veins with fibered coils. Three patients (30%) had undergone additional treatment in a supplementary manner because of recurrent symptoms (chemosis in 1 patient, faint tinnitus in 2 patients) in the early postprocedural period (1 to 4 weeks). All the symptoms were resolved on follow-up. No additional recurrence was found during follow-up (1-75 months). No peri-procedural complications were encountered. Venous outflow-targeted coil embolization of CCFs would be a safe and effective treatment method.

Technique to "Trap" a Segment of the Middle Meningeal Artery for Embolization of a Carotid Cavernous Fistula: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

Transvenous embolization is the favored treatment for indirect carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs). However, transarterial embolization can be used as an alternative method when the venous route is inaccessible. We present the case of a 47-yr-old woman with a history of diplopia, headaches, and sixth cranial nerve (CN-VI) palsy who presented with acute worsening of headache and ophthalmoplegia and rise of intraocular pressures. Angiography demonstrated a left indirect CCF (dural arteriovenous malformation) with multiple arterial feeders from the internal carotid artery as well as the middle meningeal artery (MMA) (Barrow type D). Transvenous approach was attempted first but was unsuccessful due to difficult access to the cavernous sinus. Thus, transarterial embolization through the MMA feeding branches was planned. To avoid occluding distal branches of the MMA by Onyx, we coiled it distally. In addition, we used a scepter balloon proximally to prevent the reflux of Onyx into potential collaterals to cranial nerves from proximal MMA. After trapping a segment of the MMA, Onyx was injected into the CCF fistula through the small MMA feeders. A postembolization arteriogram showed obliteration of the CCF. The patient developed mild left facial nerve paresis on the first postoperative day (thought to be related to partial embolization of tiny arteries in the facial canal), which was resolving in the course of hospitalization. She remained neurologically stable, and was discharged on the third postoperative day. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of transarterial embolization of CCF by distal coiling and proximal ballooning to trap a segment of an artery. The authors hereby confirm that informed consent was obtained from the patient after thorough discussion of the procedure's rationale, risks, benefits, and alternatives.

Commentary: Onyx Embolization of Carotid-Cavernous Fistulas and Its Impact on Intraocular Pressure and Recurrence: A Case Series.

Commentary: Onyx Embolization of Carotid-Cavernous Fistulas and Its Impact on Intraocular Pressure and Recurrence: A Case Series.

Transvenous Embolization of Carotid Cavernous Fistula through Inferior Petrosal Sinus with Detachable Coils and Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol Copolymer.

Carotid cavernous fistula (CCF) is a rare disease caused by abnormal communications between the internal carotid artery (direct fistula) or meningeal branches of the external carotid artery (indirect fistula) and the cavernous sinus (CS). Trauma is the most common cause of CCF. The clinical presentation of CCF is closely related to the venous drainage pattern. Orbital and neuro-ophthalmological symptoms are the most common clinical presentation of CCF with drainage through the superior ophthalmic vein (SOV). Endovascular embolization by arterial or venous approaches is the most common management of CCF. Transvenous embolization using detachable coils and ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) is an alternative method for the treatment of CCF. Endovascular embolization offers different options to treat CCF by minimally invasive approach decreasing morbidity and residual fistulas. The purpose of this article is to report our treatment experiences via the inferior petrosal sinus (IPS), and immediate-term outcomes of endovascular embolization of CCF by using detachable coils and EVOH.

Embolization of carotid-cavernous fistulas: A technical note on simultaneous balloon protection of the internal carotid artery

A carotid-cavernous fistula (CCF) is an abnormal connection between the carotid circulation and the cavernous sinus. Treatment of CCFs often consists of obliteration of the fistula by a transarterial or transvenous endovascular approach using embolic agents. However, fistula embolization is often halted due to the potential embolic complications that may arise from the retrograde flow of the embolic agents into the arterial circulation, which often leads to the development of fistula recurrence. Moreover, retreatment of a CCF recurrence is challenging and more complex approaches may be required. In this technical note, we describe our experience with CCF embolization in 25 patients treated at a single center. We utilized a transvenous approach for CCF embolization with simultaneous balloon occlusion of the internal carotid artery during the infusion of the embolic material into the fistula. In our series, this simultaneous protection of the internal carotid artery showed to be a safe technique to prevent embolic complications and to achieve successful obliteration of the fistula. On follow-up, 2 cases presented a recurrence, one due to technical difficulties and the other related to an undetected vascular injury. In conclusion, this technique provides a safe approach in the treatment of CCFs by decreasing the risk of embolic complications and increasing the effectiveness of the embolic agents in accomplishing the obliteration of the CCF.

Internal carotid artery occlusion may affect long-term quality of life in patients with high-flow carotid cavernous fistulas

To investigate the mid- and long-term effects of parent artery occlusion on the carotid cavernous fistula and on the quality of life of patients. One hundred and twenty-six patients with high-flow direct carotid cavernous fistulas were enrolled. The modified Rankin scale scores, the headache impact test and the short form health survey scores were used to evaluate the patients' clinical status. Fifty-two patients had parent artery occlusion, while the rest of the 74 patients had embolization of carotid cavernous fistulas with parent artery preservation. No periprocedural complications occurred. Eighteen patients in the parent artery occlusion group had low perfusion symptoms within two weeks following embolization, and three patients had Horner's syndrome on the ipsilateral side. At two months' follow-up, the patients with parent artery occlusion had a significantly (P < 0.05) greater proportion of headache than patients with parent artery preservation. At 12 months, no significant (P > 0.05) difference existed in the headache impact test scores in both groups. At 36 months' follow-up, the patients with parent artery occlusion had decreased SF-30 scores in all the eight health domains compared with patients treated with parent artery preservation, with a significant (P < 0.05) lower score in general health, vitality and bodily pain in the parent artery occlusion compared with the parent artery preservation group. No recurrence was shown in patients with parent artery occlusion, but nine (12.2%) patients were recurrent in patients with parent artery preservation. Parent artery occlusion may affect the quality of life of patients with carotid cavernous fistulas despite being an effective treatment option for high-flow direct fistulas.

Anatomic Variation of Facial Vein in Carotid-Cavernous Fistula and Trans–Facial Vein Embolization

Trans-facial vein (FV) embolization via the internal jugular vein is an alternative approach to embolization of carotid cavernous fistulas (CCFs). The purpose of this study is to report the anatomic variation of FVs and our experience of trans-FV embolization of CCFs. Over 6 years, 26 patients (12 men and 14 women; age range 27-72 years old) with CCFs underwent trans-FV embolization because of anterior drainage of fistulas. We retrospectively analyzed angioarchitecture of the CCFs focusing on the anatomic variations of FVs and angiographic and clinical outcomes after embolization. FVs drained to the internal jugular vein in 10 (38%) cases; FVs unexpectedly emptied into the external jugular vein in 16 (62%) cases. All FVs entered into the internal jugular vein at the level of the hyoid bone. In cases with fistulas to the FV and EJV, the termination of FVs was variable including superior (n = 5), inferior (n = 1), or at the level of the hyoid bone (n = 10). Successful microcatheterization via different insertions of FVs to jugular veins was achieved in all cases. One patient had a small residual fistula, and 2 patients had fistula recurrence. Temporary impairment of cranial nerve III or VI occurred in 4 patients. The mean clinical follow-up time was 18 months. Trans-FV embolization is an effective and safe method to manage CCFs with anterior drainage. However, anatomic variations of the FV exist, and a careful work-up of fistula venous drainage before trans-FV embolization is essential to reduce erroneous attempts, procedure time, and periprocedural risk.

Endovascular treatment with transvenous approach for embolization of carotid cavernous fistula

The aim of endovascular treatment in carotid cavernous fistula is to close the tear side at cavernous sinus part. It can be dealt either by transvenous or transarterial approach. The option is influenced by type of fistula and angioarchitectural findings. We described two different transvenous routes emphasizing on anatomical consideration and its technical aspect.

Difficult indirect carotid-cavernous fistulas--alternative techniques to gaining access for treatment.

AimsCarotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs) are abnormal communications between the carotid arterial system and the cavernous sinus that occur mainly in elderly. Occasionally, treatment of indirect CCFs with conventional endovascular approach through large veins or the inferior petrosal sinus may not be possible. In these cases, a direct surgical cut down on to the superior ophthalmic vein (SOV) is necessary. We describe three such cases of embolization of CCFs through SOV, and their results.MethodsA retrospective case notes review of treated patients over the past 10 years in one tertiary center constituted our methodology.ResultsThe fistulas in two cases were successfully coiled with complete obviation of symptoms and signs. The third case was complicated due to difficulty in canulating a deeply seated vein and so had to be abandoned and catheterized through contralateral superior petrosal sinus and treated with liquid embolic material Onyx® successfully.ConclusionIn cases where conventional access to the cavernous sinus may not be possible due to local variations of anatomy, multidisciplinary surgical approaches via the SOV provide an alternative route to successfully and safely close a CCF. However, unexpected anatomical variations could also be encountered within the SOV for which the surgeon should be prepared.

Mid- and long-term outcomes of carotid-cavernous fistula endovascular management with Onyx and n-BCA: experience of a single tertiary center

IntroductionEndovascular therapy is the preferred treatment for most carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs). Early reports have documented excellent initial clinical and radiographic outcomes after embolization of CCFs with Onyx or n-butyl cyanoacrylate...

Treatment of carotid-cavernous fistulas using intraarterial balloon assistance: case series and technical note

Multiple approaches have been used to treat carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs). The transvenous approach has become a popular and effective route. Onyx is a valuable tool in today's endovascular armamentarium. The authors describe the use of a balloon-assisted technique in the treatment of CCFs with Onyx and assess its feasibility, utility, and safety. The authors searched their prospectively maintained database for CCFs embolized using Onyx with the assistance of a compliant balloon placed in the internal carotid artery (ICA). Five patients were treated between July 2009 and July 2011 at the authors' institution. A balloon helped to identify the fistulous point, served as a buttress for coils, protected from inadvertent arterial embolizations, and prevented Onyx and coils from obscuring the ICA during the course of embolization. No balloon-related complications were noted in any of the 5 cases. All 5 fistulas were completely obliterated at the end of the procedure. Four patients had available clinical follow-ups, and all 4 showed reversal of nerve palsies. Balloon-assisted Onyx embolization of CCFs offers a powerful combination that prevents inadvertent migration of the embolic material into the arterial system, facilitates visualization of the ICA, and serves as a buttress for coils deployed in the cavernous sinus through the fistulous point. Despite adding another layer of technical complexity, an intraarterial balloon can provide valuable assistance in the treatment of CCFs.

The superior ophthalmic vein approach for the treatment of carotid-cavernous fistulas: a novel technique using Onyx

Endovascular therapy is the primary treatment option for carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs). Operative cannulation of the superior ophthalmic vein (SOV) provides a reasonable alternative route to the cavernous sinus when all transvenous and transarterial approaches have been unsuccessful. The role of the liquid embolic agent Onyx in the management of CCFs has not been well documented, especially when using an SOV approach. The purpose of this study is to assess the safety and efficacy of Onyx embolization of CCFs through a surgical cannulation of the SOV. The authors retrospectively reviewed all patients with CCFs who were treated with Onyx through an SOV approach between April 2009 and April 2011. Traditional endovascular approaches had failed in all patients. A total of 10 patients were identified, 1 with a Type A CCF, 5 with a Type B CCF, and 4 with a Type D CCF. All fistulas were embolized in 1 session. Onyx was the sole embolic agent used in 7 cases and was combined with coils in 3 other cases. Complete obliteration was achieved in 8 patients and a significant reduction in fistulous flow was achieved in 2 patients, which later progressed to near-complete occlusion on angiographic follow-up. All patients experienced a complete clinical recovery with excellent cosmetic results and were free from recurrence at their latest clinical follow-up evaluations. Onyx embolization is an excellent therapy for CCFs in general, and through an SOV approach in particular. Direct operative cannulation of the SOV followed by Onyx embolization may be the best treatment option in patients with CCFs when all other endovascular approaches have been exhausted.

Treatment of Recurrent Carotid Cavernous Fistula by Direct Puncture of a Previously Trapped Internal Carotid Artery

Treatment of direct carotid cavernous fistulas has evolved from surgical ligation and trapping to endovascular techniques. Endovascular therapy allows occlusion of the fistula while preserving the parent carotid artery. The present report describes a case of direct carotid cavernous fistula that was initially treated with the trapping procedure 21 years earlier. The patient had a recurrent direct carotid cavernous fistula and was treated successfully with embolization by means of direct percutaneous puncture of the carotid artery above the trapped level. Direct puncture of the carotid artery is an alternative treatment in patients who lack safe access for direct carotid cavernous fistula embolization.

Percutaneous Trans-Superior Orbital Fissure Embolizationof Carotid-Cavernous Fistulas: Technique and Preliminary Results

To describe the technique of percutaneous, infraocular embolization of indirect carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs) and analyze the results in a small clinical series. A retrospective case series of 4 patients treated at Emory University Hospital. Four patients with indirect CCFs and limited transvenous access were successfully treated with transcutaneous, infraocular embolization of the recipient cavernous sinus via the ipsilateral superior orbital fissure. Main outcome measures were clinical examination findings and cerebral angiography. All patients had either preservation or improvement in final visual outcome. One patient required early retreatment because of clot lysis and reopening of a secondary, iatrogenic direct CCF. Two patients suffered early postprocedural orbital hemorrhage requiring treatment with lateral canthotomy and inferior cantholysis. Based these findings, percutaneous, infraocular, trans-superior orbital fissure embolization of CCFs is a viable alternative in patients with refractory fistulas failing management with more conventional techniques. Orbital hemorrhage is a significant risk, and availability of an ophthalmologist skilled in the management of this complication is imperative.

Cavernous sinus fistula treated through the transvenous approach: Report of four cases

To describe transvenous embolization in four patients with indirect dural carotid cavernous fistulas (CCFs) via the inferior petrosal sinus (IPS) or superior ophthalmic vein (SOV), and their clinical outcomes. The CCF approach was performed after retrograde venous catheterization from the femoral vein to the cavernous sinus via the IPS (n=1) or SOV (n=3). SOV catheterization was possible without surgical intervention. All patients presented initially with typical clinical signs of CCF. Patients treated via the SOV presented with thrombosis of the IPS. Catheterization and embolization were successful in all patients, with complete angiographic occlusion of the fistula. No early or late complications occurred. All patients presented with favorable clinical outcomes and complete recovery of ocular symptoms. Retrograde transvenous embolization of CCF via the IPS, or SOV if the IPS is thrombosed, is a safe procedure with a good clinical outcome.

Transarterial Embolization of Direct Carotid Cavernous Fistulas with the Double-Balloon Technique

Treatment of direct carotid cavernous fistulas (CCF) has progressed from surgical ligation to surgical trapping to endovascular techniques. Endovascular therapies are advantageous as they allow for occlusion of the fistula whilst preserving flow in the parent carotid artery. However, technical difficulties are not uncommon and occur when the fistulous orifice is too small or when the inflated balloon in the cavernous sinus retracts to the carotid artery. Both circumstances may lead to technical failure or an unplanned sacrifice of the parent internal carotid artery (ICA). Here we describe a double-balloon technique used in the embolization of CCF in four patients that were successfully treated with complete immediate occlusion whilst preserving the parent ICA.

Massive Exophthalmos after Traumatic Carotid-Cavernous Fistula Embolization

An 18-year-old man without previous clinical problems developed a left traumatic carotid-cavernous fistula after a traffic accident. An endovascular embolization with coils was performed without success. The drainage was derived to the superior ophthalmic vein solely and clinical worsening occurred. Left eye proptosis, chemosis and intraocular pressure increased. Complete ophthalmoplegia developed and visual acuity decreased due to a central retinal vein obstruction. After a second embolization attempt the fistula was closed successfully but proptosis, chemosis and intraocular pressure remained uncontrolled despite medical treatment. Therefore an orbital decompression surgery was performed. Ophthalmoplegia, proptosis and chemosis improved and intraocular pressure was controlled.Although retinal hemorrhages persist, no neovascularization has developed. Central retinal vein occlusion in young patients seems to have a different etiology than in the elderly. In young patients, local factors are more frequently identified than systemic vascular diseases. Early detection of central retinal vein obstruction may prevent deterioration of visual acuity.

COMBINED OCULOPLASTIC AND NEUROSURGICAL APPROACHES TO ORBITAL DISEASE

Rapidly increasing medical knowledge, technologic advances, and the creation of tertiary care centers have increased physician subspecialization. With this subspecialization, physicians have often been isolated from colleagues in other disciplines, limiting their opportunities to learn of advances in other subspecialties. Through recent collaborations with neurosurgical colleagues we have developed a combined orbital-neurosurgical approach to orbital tumors, carotid cavernous fistula embolization, and orbital decompression surgery. This approach offers wide surgical exposure and mimimal brain manipulation.

Embolization of carotid cavernous fistula by means of direct puncture through the superior orbital fissure.

To embolize carotid cavernous fistulas (CCFs) by means of transorbital puncture of the cavernous sinus (CS) and the cavernous segment of the internal carotid artery (ICA) through the superior orbital fissure. Five patients with CCF were treated with embolization of the CS, and six were treated with embolization of both the CS and the cavernous portion of the ICA after transorbital puncture. All except one had previously undergone occlusion of the ipsilateral proximal ICA before direct transorbital puncture. The fistulas in these cases were all obliterated completely. Only two patients had temporary ptosis. No other remarkable complications were noted. The patent ICA on the side of the fistula in one patient remained patent after embolization. Direct transorbital puncture through the superior orbital fissure is an alternate treatment for CCF, especially when the ipsilateral ICA has been occluded.

Embolization of carotid-cavernous fistula using a silicone balloon and a tracker catheter system

Embolization of carotid-cavernous fistula using a silicone balloon and a tracker catheter system