Targeted compartmental embolization of cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistulae using transfemoral medial and lateral facial vein approaches

Abstract

There are multiple transvenous approaches for treatment of cavernous dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVF). The choice of a specific route depends on the compartment of the cavernous sinus involved in the fistula and its venous drainage. We used two different facial vein approaches to treat patients with cavernous DAVF draining directly into the anterior compartment of the cavernous sinus and thence to the superior ophthalmic vein. Other transvenous routes to the sinus were not apparent. Embolization was targeted to the involved compartment with preservation of those not embolized. No major post-procedure ophthalmic venous engorgement occurred. We believe that ideal treatment of cavernous DAVF is targeted transvenous coil deposition, which necessitates detailed knowledge of the anatomy of the facial veins and cavernous sinus compartments.