[Carotid-cavernous fistula--diagnostic possibilities of color doppler ultrasonography].

PURPOSE

The diagnosis of carotid-cavernous fistula as a cause of exophthalmus, especially in cases of minor shunts, can be difficult. Angiography is the basic examination of choice is angiography. The aim of the work was to assess the usefulness of colour-coded Doppler ultrasonography (CD-US) in diagnosis of fistulas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CD-US examinations were analysed in four patients with carotid-cavernous shunts (two post-traumatic, two spontaneous). The diagnosis was confirmed by angiography and computer tomography (CT).

RESULTS

Characteristic ultrasonographic appearance in all four cases of fistula was noted. Relation between dynamics of the lesion in CD-US and size of the shunt in CT was found.

CONCLUSIONS

CD-US can be recommended both in the initial diagnosis of carotid-cavernous fistulas as well as in follow-up of the treatment.