Direct superficial temporal vein approach for dural carotid cavernous fistula.

SUMMARY: We present an alternative endovascular approach to treat dural carotid cavernous fistulae (dural CCF) that drain only into the superior ophthalmic vein. Four cases of cavernous dural AVFs that could not be treated via the inferior petrosal vein were accessed via the direct superficial temporal vein approach through the superior ophthalmic vein. Successful embolization was documented radiographically and clinically in all patients. The trans-superficial temporal vein approach is safe and useful for inaccessible dural CCFs through the inferior petrosal sinus.