Carotico-cavernous fistula: An educational case

Sean Martin; Mario Teo; Jo Bhattacharya; Likhith Alakandy

doi:10.1016/j.ijscr.2013.07.002

Carotico-cavernous fistula: An educational case

Int J Surg Case Rep. 2013;4(10):858-60. doi: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2013.07.002. Epub 2013 Jul 16.

Authors

Sean Martin¹, Mario Teo, Jo Bhattacharya, Likhith Alakandy

Affiliation

¹ Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Neurological Science, Glasgow G51 4TF, United Kingdom. Electronic address: seanmartin@doctors.org.uk.

Abstract

Introduction: We present a case of direct carotico-cavernous fistula (CCF) and its successful treatment.

Presentation of case: A 55-year-old male presented with left eye discomfort, diplopia and pulsatile tinnitus. He had a recent history of head injury. Examination showed proptosis, chemosis, orbital bruit, and abducens nerve palsy. Digital subtraction angiography confirmed CCF, which was managed endovascularly. The patient recovered fully after treatment.

Discussion: CCF has a variety of presenting clinical signs, imaging manifestations, and treatment options available.

Conclusion: CCF is a rare and dangerous neurological disorder that should be promptly diagnosed and treated.

Keywords: Carotico-cavernous fistula; Dilated superior ophthalmic vein; Endovascular treatment.