Carotid-cavernous Fistula
Carotid-cavernous fistula describes the abnormal communication between the carotid artery and the cavernous sinus. It is most often a complication from head trauma resulting in a basilar skull fracture. A continuous bruit can often be auscultated over the patient’s temple.
Patient 1:
This is a middle-aged man with chronic alcohol consumption who developed a cavernocarotid fistula as a result of recurrent falls and trauma to the head. Note the continuous murmur heard over the temple region.
Cavernocarotid Fistula