Carotid-cavernous Fistula

Carotid-cavernous fistula is an abnormal arteriovenous shunt between the carotid circulation and the cavernous sinus, causing pulsatile exophthalmos, orbital bruit, chemosis, and ophthalmoplegia. It may be direct (traumatic/ spontaneous high-flow) or indirect (dural low-flow). Treatment: neurointerventional embolization (detachable coils/balloons/liquid embolic); treat associated orbital complications; vision monitoring; surgery rarely needed.

Common Symptoms

Pulsatile exophthalmos; orbital bruit; chemosis; ophthalmoplegia; by direct/indirect

Causes and Pathogenesis

Trauma/spontaneous dural shunt creates high-pressure flow into cavernous sinus, causing orbital venous congestion.

Treatment

Endovascular embolization; treat orbital complications; vision monitoring

Preventive Measures

Traumatic brain injury surveillance; early treatment preserves vision.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurology-Neuroradiology/Ophthalmology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.