Traumatic carotid-cavernous fistula due to transection of the intracavernous carotid artery

Abstract

✓ The authors report a case of a high-flow posttraumatic carotid-cavernous fistula, with complete steal of the blood flow from the ipsilateral internal carotid artery (ICA). Direct attack on the intracavernous carotid artery was performed using the approach of Parkinson with temporary isolation of the ICA. Complete transection of the artery within the cavernous sinus was encountered. The fistula was occluded by clipping the two ends of the ICA within the sinus. The implications of this previously unreported finding are discussed.