Facial vein catheterization for transvenous embolization of the cavernous sinus. Technique and advantages of the direct jugular vein approach - report of three cases.

SUMMARY: We describe three cases of transvenous embolization of arteriovenous fistulas of the cavernous sinus, achieved through the facial vein approach. The facial vein was catheterized from a jugular vein access. This cervical approach offered good stability to the guiding catheter that permitted us to negotiate difficult curves of the facial vein and to recanalize venous thrombosis in one case.