Spontaneous healing of iatrogenic direct carotid cavernous fistula

Direct carotid-cavernous fistula (CCF) by selective navigation using a microcatheter or microwire is a rare complication, and its timing of treatment has not been elucidated. We report two cases of direct CCFs resulting from injury to the cavernous posterior segment of the internal carotid artery during selective navigation. We did not plan to perform emergent endovascular treatment for these direct CCFs because no symptoms related to direct CCFs developed. Follow-up angiography revealed spontaneous healing of both direct CCFs. Close observation rather than emergent treatment may represent another option for direct CCF by selective navigation during the endovascular procedure.