Superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis post manual carotid compression for indirect carotid-cavernous fistula

To report 5 cases of superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis (SOVT) following intermittent manual carotid compression (IMCC) for indirect carotid-cavernous fistula (CCF) and to outline the management.

Retrospective observational case series of all patients who developed SOVT secondary to IMCC for indirect low flow CCF's at a tertiary care center. The demographic profile, clinical, imaging findings, treatment, and outcomes were studied.

The mean age at presentation was 60.2 years (Range: 42-87 years). Four patients were male. All patients had a unilateral presentation. The mean time interval between starting IMCC and the development of SOVT was 1.18 months (Range: 0.25-3 months). Acute exacerbation of proptosis and chemosis associated with a decrease in vision was the presenting feature in all the patients. The mean visual acuity at presentation was 0.89 on the logMAR scale. The causes of reduced visual acuity were venous stasis retinopathy (n = 4) and compressive optic neuropathy (n = 1). Magnetic resonance imaging revealed enlarged superior ophthalmic vein with absent flow voids and post-contrast filling defects. Four patients received anticoagulation treatment with subcutaneous injection of enoxaparin 1 mg/kg twice daily for 5 days followed by oral warfarin 5 mg once daily along with oral steroids. Complete recovery of SOVT was noted in all patients at a mean duration of treatment of 0. 75 months (Range: 0-2 months).

SOVT is a rare but possible complication in patients on IMCC for indirect CCF, and hence warrants close follow up. Early diagnosis and prompt management will help in preventing complications like permanent vision loss.