Transvenous embolization of traumatic carotid cavernous fistula with mechanical detachable coils.

An attempt at transarterial balloon embolization of a traumatic carotid cavernous fistula was made but the carotid artery rent was too small for this approach. The patient was then treated by antegrade embolization through a superior ophthalmic vein using mechanical detachable coils. Successful obliteration of the fistula was achieved with preservation of the carotid artery. Transvenous embolization is an alternative technique to treat patients with traumatic carotid cavernous fistulas, especially when a transarterial approach has failed.