Abstract
Objectives
Direct carotid-cavernous fistulas are high-flow abnormal connections between the carotid
artery and cavernous sinus, which are associated with significant morbidity and mortality
if left untreated. In addition to endovascular coil embolization, there is an evolving
role for alternative stand-alone or adjunctive treatment approaches. We describe a
case of flow diversion as an adjunctive treatment approach in a treatment-resistant
direct carotid-cavernous fistula and review the literature on the use of flow diversion
in this clinical context.
Materials and methods
We describe the clinical course, imaging findings, and outcome of a patient who developed
a traumatic carotid-cavernous fistula requiring multiple interventions. We also performed
an updated literature review of all published cases of flow diversion use in the treatment
of direct CCFs.
Results
Our patient achieved angiographic cure and significant improvement in symptoms at
6-month follow-up. A total of 53 cases of flow diversion use in direct carotid-cavernous
fistulas were identified from a literature search. In one third of cases, flow diversion
was used as a stand-alone treatment modality. Angiographic resolution was achieved
in 90% of cases at a median follow-up duration of 6 months. One half of reported cases
had complete resolution of symptoms and a further third noted clinical improvement
in at least some of their symptoms.
Conclusions
There is an emerging role for flow diversion as a safe and effective stand-alone or
adjunctive treatment option for direct carotid-cavernous fistulas. Our case further
supports a role for flow diversion in treatment-resistant fistulas with high-risk
features. As treatment approaches continue to evolve, prospective, randomized data
will be needed to establish the role of flow divertors in the hierarchy of available
treatments for carotid-cavernous fistulas.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: October 23, 2022
Accepted:
October 3,
2022
Received in revised form:
September 20,
2022
Received:
May 30,
2022
Footnotes
All authors have contributed significantly to the writing of this manuscript.
None of the authors have any conflicts of interest or relevant industry affiliations to disclose.
Written consent was waived on the basis of patient anonymity.
Identification
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2022.106840
Copyright
© 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
