Intracavernous aneurysms: treatment by proximal balloon occlusion of the internal carotid artery.

Seven patients with intracavernous aneurysms were treated by proximal balloon occlusion of the carotid artery, with no attempt to preserve carotid blood flow. After a 15-minute occlusion trial, two balloons were detached proximal to the neck of these aneurysms. Major clinical improvement occurred in six patients and no procedure-related complications were encountered (the follow-up period was 4-14 months). Because these aneurysms arise proximal to major collateral pathways, proximal carotid occlusions via endovascular techniques are simple and safe and carry with them little risk of thromboembolism.