Carotid-cavernous fistula: a controlled embolus technique for occlusion of fistula with preservation of carotid blood flow

Abstract

✓ A case is described in which a carotid-cavernous fistula was eliminated successfully with preservation of the carotid circulation by a small ball-shaped muscle embolus introduced via an arteriotomy in the cervical carotid. The intent is to lodge the embolus in the fistula without occluding the carotid siphon. A long thread is attached to the embolus to permit its withdrawal if its position in the siphon proves unsatisfactory. Neither the intracranial nor cervical carotid artery is ligated.