Severe vision loss and neovascular glaucoma complicating superior ophthalmic vein approach to carotid-cavernous sinus fistula

Am J Ophthalmol. 1997 Dec;124(6):853-5. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(14)71711-8.

Abstract

Purpose: To report a patient with unilateral vision loss and neovascular glaucoma after attempted superior ophthalmic vein embolization in the treatment of a carotid-cavernous sinus fistula.

Methods: A 69-year-old man with a history of a left dural carotid-cavernous sinus fistula underwent attempted treatment with superior ophthalmic vein embolization. The procedure was unsuccessful, and the left superior ophthalmic vein was ligated.

Results: Uncontrolled left proptosis and intraocular pressure necessitated urgent orbital decompression with severe vision loss and neovascular glaucoma.

Conclusion: Superior ophthalmic vein embolization in the management of carotid-cavernous fistula may be associated with vision-threatening complications.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Arteriovenous Fistula / complications
  • Arteriovenous Fistula / diagnostic imaging
  • Arteriovenous Fistula / therapy*
  • Blindness / diagnosis
  • Blindness / etiology*
  • Blindness / therapy
  • Carotid Artery Diseases / complications
  • Carotid Artery Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Carotid Artery Diseases / therapy*
  • Cavernous Sinus*
  • Cerebral Angiography
  • Ciliary Body / surgery
  • Embolization, Therapeutic / adverse effects*
  • Eye / blood supply*
  • Glaucoma, Neovascular / etiology*
  • Glaucoma, Neovascular / surgery
  • Humans
  • Intraocular Pressure
  • Laser Coagulation
  • Male
  • Veins
  • Visual Acuity