THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:
Kimshealth Trivandrum has successfully saved a 26-year-old man who was at risk of losing his eyesight due to a severe head injury. This rare condition, known as carotid cavernous fistula (CCF), involves an abnormal connection between the carotid arteries (blood vessels that affect brain function) and the nerves at the back of the eye, which can even lead to a stroke. The medical team, led by Dr. Santhosh Joseph, Senior Consultant, Department of Neuro Interventional Radiology, saved the patient from a critical situation through a rare procedure called carotid cavernous fistula (CCF) embolization.
The carotid arteries are blood vessels that carry blood to the head and brain. In rare cases of severe head injuries, the carotid arteries and the nerves behind the eye can fuse together, creating an abnormal connection. This fusion leads to excessive bleeding and obstructs the proper drainage of the veins, thereby increasing blood pressure in the eye and causing puffiness and redness. If left untreated, this condition can result in vision loss and, in some instances, a stroke.
Carotid cavernous fistula or CCF embolization involves the occlusion of the carotid arteries and veins using platinum coils. This procedure restores normal blood flow. This treatment is only available at selected centres in the country Dr. Dinesh Babu, Associate Consultant, Neuro Interventional Radiology and Dr. Jayanth R Seshan, Associate Consultant, Neuroanaesthesia, were also part of the hour-long embolization.
Expressing his satisfaction with the timely intervention, Dr. Santhosh Joseph remarked, “We have successfully restored normal blood flow in the patient. The utilisation of advanced technologies, such as the placement of platinum coils, continues to revolutionise our healthcare practices. Through such innovative interventions, we can significantly reduce hospital stays, expedite recovery, and enable patients to return to their normal lives faster.”
