Case of the Week
Section Editors: Matylda Machnowska1 and Anvita Pauranik2
1University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
2BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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May 28, 2012
Cerebral (Venous) Air Embolism
- Cerebral air embolism is a well known complication of trauma, central venous (CV) catheterization, pressurized intravenous infusion systems, and orthopedic, neurosurgical, or cardiovascular surgical procedures.
- Air embolism secondary to insertion, removal, or use of a central venous catheter is more common than previously believed.
- Physicians must be aware of this complication, and precautions must be taking during these procedures, including keeping the patient in Trendelenburg's position.
- Key Diagnostic Features: Air within cortical veins (subarachnoid space) and venous sinsuses, and possible associated occasionally hemorrhagic infarction.
- DDx: Trauma
- Rx: 100% oxygen, Trendelenburg position, intubation, hyperbaric oxygen, supportive
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