Treatment of traumatic carotid-cavernous fistula with detachable balloon

From November 1986 to February 1989, 18 patients with traumatic carotid-cavernous fistulas were treated by means of detachable balloon, which was made by ourselves. Successful embolization was achieved in 15 patients. Draining features of the fistulas and methods of embolization were introduced. The method was compared with other methods. Selection of treatments and problems in embolization are discussed.