MRI of dural carotid-cavernous fistulas. Comparisons with postcontrast CT

Clin Imaging. 1992 Oct-Dec;16(4):263-8. doi: 10.1016/0899-7071(92)90010-7.

Abstract

Ten patients with dural carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs) who presented with ophthalmic manifestations were studied using postcontrast computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and selective cerebral arteriography. The lesions of two patients were bilateral. An enlarged cavernous sinus (CS) was diagnosed in 6 of the 12 involved sides using postcontrast CT. An abnormal flow void in the CS was detectable in 11 of the 12 using MRI. A dilated superior ophthalmic vein (SOV) was demonstrated in all of the involved sides by postcontrast CT, and in 9 of the 12 by axial MRI. Thus, both postcontrast CT and MRI are relatively useful and complementary in the diagnosis of dural CCFs. Patients should be followed with selective cerebral arteriography for definitive diagnoses and for therapeutic planning.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Arteriovenous Fistula / diagnosis*
  • Arteriovenous Fistula / diagnostic imaging
  • Carotid Artery, Internal / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cavernous Sinus / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cerebral Angiography
  • Dura Mater / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed