Dural malformations with ophthalmic manifestations: results of particulate embolization in seven patients.

Seven patients with proptosis, chemosis, diplopia, and elevated intraocular pressure were found to have dural arteriovenous malformations with drainage into the cavernous sinus and superior ophthalmic vein. These patients had sufficient symptoms to justify therapeutic embolization with polyvinyl alcohol. Five of seven patients had complete resolution of their ophthalmic symptoms after embolization; the other two had transient improvement. Follow-up was 9-29 months. When 50% or more of the vessels supplying a malformation were embolized, complete relief of symptoms was obtained. Particulate embolization is an effective therapeutic approach in patients with significant ophthalmologic symptoms from dural malformations.