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[Duplex sonography in carotid-cavernous sinus fistula].
R Zisch1, L Dinkhauser, H Lugmayr
1Institut für Radiologie II Digitale Schnittbildtechnik, Allgemeines öffentliches Krankenhaus Wels.
Ultraschall in Der Medizin (Stuttgart, Germany : 1980)
|October 1, 1988
Summary
Carotid-cavernous sinus fistulas cause reversed flow and dilated ophthalmic veins due to absent valves. Duplex sonography accurately detects these vascular changes, offering a simple, non-invasive diagnostic tool.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Carotid-cavernous sinus fistulas (CCSF) are abnormal connections between the carotid artery and the cavernous sinus.
- Ophthalmic veins lack valves, making them susceptible to abnormal flow dynamics in the presence of a fistula.
- Diagnosis of CCSF can be challenging, often requiring invasive procedures.
Observation:
- A case report highlights findings in a patient with a CCSF.
- Reversed blood flow and significant vascular dilatation were observed in the ophthalmic veins.
- These changes are attributed to the absence of valves in the ophthalmic veins.
Findings:
- Duplex sonography demonstrated the ability to accurately evaluate the reversed flow and vascular dilatation.
- The sonographic findings correlated with the presence of a carotid-cavernous sinus fistula.
- This non-invasive imaging technique proved effective in identifying key pathological signs.
Implications:
- Duplex sonography is a valuable, simple, non-invasive, and cost-effective method for diagnosing CCSF.
- It should be considered even when the suspicion of CCSF is low.
- This approach can potentially reduce the need for more invasive diagnostic procedures.