Endovascular Intervention for a Carotid-Cavernous Fistula: A Case Report

A carotid-cavernous fistula is a rare vascular anomaly involving abnormal communication between the carotid artery and the cavernous sinus. This condition leads to the shunting of arterial blood directly into the venous system, causing diverse clinical manifestations. The classification includes direct and indirect fistulas, with endovascular techniques emerging as a preferred treatment option. In this report, we present the case of a 58-year-old male who presented with progressive right-sided proptosis, headache, and visual disturbances. He exhibited right abducens nerve palsy, reduced visual acuity, and a dilated superior ophthalmic vein on imaging. A multidisciplinary team confirmed the diagnosis of a carotid-cavernous fistula and chose to pursue endovascular embolization. Catheter angiography revealed the fistula and balloon-assisted occlusion restored normal arterial flow. The patient's symptoms improved, and follow-up showed complete resolution of proptosis and enhanced visual acuity. Successful endovascular embolization underscores the significance of a multidisciplinary approach and showcases the positive outcomes achievable when diverse specialties converge for patient well-being.

An Unusual Case of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Presenting as Proptosis

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a rare, heterogeneous group of genetic connective tissue disorders that affect collagen proteins. Currently, they are classified into 13 subtypes, many of which share general characteristics such as thin, hyperextensible skin and joint hypermobility. Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS) is characterized by tissue fragility, which predisposes individuals to premature arterial, uterine, or intestinal rupture. In this case, a young female presented with proptosis, skin hyperelasticity, and multiple joint dislocations. On computed tomography angiography (CTA), a direct caroticocavernous fistula, along with multiple segments of narrowing and ectasia in the internal carotid arteries and vertebral arteries, were detected, leading to a diagnosis of vEDS. This case report highlights the importance of clinical evaluation and the role of imaging in detecting this rare condition.

A caroticocavernous fistula without vascular injury following endoscopic transsphenoidal excision of a tuberculum sellae meningioma-A case report

Caroticocavernous fistulae can occur following transsphenoidal surgery even without evidence of carotid artery injury. A role of vascularized flap reconstruction may be contributory.