Orbital compartment syndrome following transvenous embolization of carotid-cavernous fistula

Abstract

Superior ophthalmic vein (SOV) thrombosis is a rare complication of carotid-cavernous fistula (CCF) embolization and is usually associated with a paradoxical worsening of signs followed by subsequent spontaneous resolution. We report a case in a 69-year-old female who developed orbital compartment syndrome due to SOV thrombosis following transvenous embolization of an indirect CCF. The patient was treated with an urgent lateral canthotomy and cantholysis and had good recovery. This report demonstrates that the paradoxical worsening due to SOV thrombosis in CCF may result in orbital compartment syndrome and require early recognition and prompt decompressive measures to avoid permanent visual sequelae.