Evolution of management strategies for cavernous carotid aneurysms: a review.

Abstract

Cavernous carotid aneurysms are considered benign lesions with indolent natural history. Apart from idiopathic aneurysms, traumatic, iatrogenic, and mycotic aneurysms are common in the cavernous segment of the carotid artery. With rapid advances in endovascular therapy, management of cavernous carotid aneurysms has evolved. Our aim was to review the management options available for cavernous carotid aneurysms. The English literature was searched for various studies describing the management of cavernous carotid aneurysms and the evolution of various treatments was studied. Numerous treatment options are available such as conservative management, Hunterian ligation, surgical clipping, and endovascular therapy. The introduction of flow-diverting stents has revolutionized the management of these lesions. The evolution of various treatment strategies are described. A thorough knowledge of all the options is paramount to individualize therapy. We discuss the indications of treatment, various management options for cavernous carotid aneurysms and their outcomes.