Intravascular carotid balloon occlusion: a retrospective study of complications in 33 cases

Materiel-methods: Thirty three patients (16 men, 17 women), mean age 45 yea rs underwent an intravascular carotid balloon occlusion for intracavernous aneurysms, carotid-cavernous fistulas or cervical carotid injuries by Fogar ty balloons (5 patients before 1982) or detachable balloons (28 patients). Transient balloon test occlusion consisted in a clinical examination, an an giographic study for 32 patients with an electroencephalogram for 16 patien ts. Results: Early complications occured for four patients by veinous rupture ( 1 patient) or ischemic injury (3 patients). Late complications occured for two patients by ischemic injuries, one asymptomatic. Discussion: These results are similar to the literature's results and the t ransient lest occlusion consisting in clinical examination, angiographic st udy and EEG seems to be reliable compared to cerebral blood pow determinati on. Conclusion : Even if its indications have decreased because of technic impr ovements permiting carotid flow preservation, carotid endovascular balloon occlusion stays a reliable, cheap technic in carotid injuries' treatment.