Improved transdural exposure and temporary occlusion of the petrous internal carotid artery for cavernous sinus surgery

Abstract

Safe surgery for vascular and neoplastic lesions involving the cavernous sinus requires adequate proximal control of the cavernous internal carotid artery (ICA). Classically, control of the cavernous ICA has necessitated dissection and isolation of the cervical vessels. The authors describe an alternative method for obtaining vascular control via transdural exposure of the petrous ICA and the use of the Fogarty balloon embolectomy catheter inserted extra-arterially into the carotid canal to provide temporary occlusion. This method is particularly well suited for proximal ICA occlusion during short-segment petrous-to-paraclinoid ICA bypass procedures as it eliminates the need for a temporary proximal ICA aneurysm clip and increases the available working space for completion of the anastomosis.