Carotid cavernous fistula: direct repair with preservation of the carotid artery

Abstract

✓ The techniques and advantages of the direct approach to carotid cavernous fistulas with repair of the fistula and preservation of the carotid artery are discussed with illustrative case reports. The surgical significance of the anatomy of the parasellar venous structures and their relationship to the carotid artery are discussed. Two points emphasized are that it is possible to operate within the cavernous sinus and still be outside both the venous and arterial components of the fistula, and that, by one means or another, the carotid should be preserved.