Transvenous embolization of a posterior condylar canal fistula causing pulsatile tinnitus

J Neurointerv Surg. 2021 Jul;13(7):680. doi: 10.1136/neurintsurg-2020-016280. Epub 2020 Aug 17.

Abstract

Dural arteriovenous fistulas of the skull base commonly present with pulsatile tinnitus. In our experience, transvenous embolization of dural arteriovenous fistulas of the skull base represents a safe and effective treatment modality due to its precision in treatment of the site of convergence of all feeding arteries and the low risk of ischemic complications. We present a case of an adult patient who presented to our institution with pulsatile tinnitus several months following a motor vehicle accident. Cerebral angiography demonstrated a dural arteriovenous fistula at the junction of the posterior condylar vein and suboccipital venous plexus supplied by branches of the vertebral artery, occipital artery, and ascending pharyngeal artery. In this operative video we demonstrate this technique and provide an in-depth discussion of our treatment decision-making process and the anatomical considerations involved in treating this lesion.

Keywords: angiography; fistula; intervention; technique; vein.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Technical Report
  • Video-Audio Media

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Central Nervous System Vascular Malformations / complications*
  • Central Nervous System Vascular Malformations / diagnostic imaging
  • Central Nervous System Vascular Malformations / therapy*
  • Cerebral Angiography / methods
  • Embolization, Therapeutic / methods*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mandibular Condyle / blood supply
  • Mandibular Condyle / diagnostic imaging
  • Tinnitus / diagnostic imaging
  • Tinnitus / etiology*
  • Tinnitus / therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome