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Parente G, Di Mitri M, Thomas E, Cravano SM, D’Antonio S, Gargano T, Libri M, Lima M. A case of massive subcutaneous emphysema and transient ischemic attack due to argon plasma coagulation following endoscopic pilonidal sinus treatment. J Surg Case Rep 2023; 2023:rjad324. [PMID: 37305345 PMCID: PMC10256626 DOI: 10.1093/jscr/rjad324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Pilonidal sinus is a small hole affecting the skin and subcutaneous tissue, which usually contains hair and skin debris, resulting in the creation of the so-called pilonidal cyst. The endoscopic pilonidal sinus treatment (EPSiT) is a minimally invasive procedure consisting of the removal of hairs and cauterization of the cavity under direct endoscopic vision. In our institution, we used to end this procedure with argon plasma coagulation (APC). Here, we discuss a case of 22-year-old man affected by pilonidal disease, who developed a massive subcutaneous emphysema and suspected transient ischemic attack secondary to gas reabsorption after an EPSiT in which APC was used for the coagulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Parente
- Pediatric Surgery Department, IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Di Mitri
- Correspondence address. Pediatric Surgery Department, IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna (IT), Via Massarenti 11, 40138, Bologna, Italy. Tel: +39-051/214.4656; Fax: +39-051/214.4619; E-mail:
| | - Eduje Thomas
- Pediatric Surgery Department, IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sara Maria Cravano
- Pediatric Surgery Department, IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simone D’Antonio
- Pediatric Surgery Department, IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Tommaso Gargano
- Pediatric Surgery Department, IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Libri
- Pediatric Surgery Department, IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mario Lima
- Pediatric Surgery Department, IRCCS Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Tan WW, Adler M, Rochow S, Myint PK. An unusual case of neurocardiogenic syncope: A case report and systematic review. J R Coll Physicians Edinb 2023; 53:19-22. [PMID: 36642954 DOI: 10.1177/14782715221147969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
We present a case of syncopal episode in emergency department (ED) and subsequent admission to the geriatric assessment unit. The patient presented with self-limiting central abdominal pain. Given a history of previous aortic aneurysm repair, a contrast CT angiogram was performed. With no evidence of leaking aneurysm, the patient was discharged from the ED. The syncopal episode happened while waiting for a taxi. A review of the earlier CT scan showed the presence of air in the venous circulatory system. In hindsight, it was thought the syncopal episode occurred due to air embolism introduced during or shortly after venous cannulation. We discuss the aetiology of venous air embolism and highlight the lack of evidence regarding tolerable amounts of air in the circulatory system. Physiological changes associated with age may suggest that elderly patients are uniquely maladapted to overcome sudden insults to their cardiovascular status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wen Tan
- Department of Medicine for the Elderly, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Maciej Adler
- Department of Medicine for the Elderly, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Stuart Rochow
- Department of Medicine for the Elderly, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Phyo Kyaw Myint
- Department of Medicine for the Elderly, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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3
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Ortega MA, Fraile-Martinez O, García-Montero C, Callejón-Peláez E, Sáez MA, Álvarez-Mon MA, García-Honduvilla N, Monserrat J, Álvarez-Mon M, Bujan J, Canals ML. A General Overview on the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Applications, Mechanisms and Translational Opportunities. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:864. [PMID: 34577787 PMCID: PMC8465921 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57090864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) consists of using of pure oxygen at increased pressure (in general, 2-3 atmospheres) leading to augmented oxygen levels in the blood (Hyperoxemia) and tissue (Hyperoxia). The increased pressure and oxygen bioavailability might be related to a plethora of applications, particularly in hypoxic regions, also exerting antimicrobial, immunomodulatory and angiogenic properties, among others. In this review, we will discuss in detail the physiological relevance of oxygen and the therapeutical basis of HBOT, collecting current indications and underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, potential areas of research will also be examined, including inflammatory and systemic maladies, COVID-19 and cancer. Finally, the adverse effects and contraindications associated with this therapy and future directions of research will be considered. Overall, we encourage further research in this field to extend the possible uses of this procedure. The inclusion of HBOT in future clinical research could be an additional support in the clinical management of multiple pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A. Ortega
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcala de Henares, Spain; (C.G.-M.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.Á.-M.); (N.G.-H.); (J.M.); (M.Á.-M.); (J.B.)
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Cancer Registry and Pathology Department, Hospital Universitario Principe de Asturias, 28806 Alcala de Henares, Spain
| | - Oscar Fraile-Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcala de Henares, Spain; (C.G.-M.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.Á.-M.); (N.G.-H.); (J.M.); (M.Á.-M.); (J.B.)
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Cielo García-Montero
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcala de Henares, Spain; (C.G.-M.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.Á.-M.); (N.G.-H.); (J.M.); (M.Á.-M.); (J.B.)
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Enrique Callejón-Peláez
- Underwater and Hyperbaric Medicine Service, Central University Hospital of Defence—UAH Madrid, 28801 Alcala de Henares, Spain;
| | - Miguel A. Sáez
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcala de Henares, Spain; (C.G.-M.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.Á.-M.); (N.G.-H.); (J.M.); (M.Á.-M.); (J.B.)
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Pathological Anatomy Service, Central University Hospital of Defence—UAH Madrid, 28801 Alcala de Henares, Spain
| | - Miguel A. Álvarez-Mon
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcala de Henares, Spain; (C.G.-M.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.Á.-M.); (N.G.-H.); (J.M.); (M.Á.-M.); (J.B.)
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Natalio García-Honduvilla
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcala de Henares, Spain; (C.G.-M.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.Á.-M.); (N.G.-H.); (J.M.); (M.Á.-M.); (J.B.)
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Monserrat
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcala de Henares, Spain; (C.G.-M.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.Á.-M.); (N.G.-H.); (J.M.); (M.Á.-M.); (J.B.)
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Melchor Álvarez-Mon
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcala de Henares, Spain; (C.G.-M.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.Á.-M.); (N.G.-H.); (J.M.); (M.Á.-M.); (J.B.)
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Immune System Diseases—Rheumatology, Oncology Service an Internal Medicine, University Hospital Príncipe de Asturias, (CIBEREHD), 28806 Alcala de Henares, Spain
| | - Julia Bujan
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, 28801 Alcala de Henares, Spain; (C.G.-M.); (M.A.S.); (M.A.Á.-M.); (N.G.-H.); (J.M.); (M.Á.-M.); (J.B.)
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Luisa Canals
- ISM, IMHA Research Chair, Former of IMHA (International Maritime Health Association), 43001 Tarragona, Spain;
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Significance of intracranial gas on post-mortem computed tomography in traumatic cases in the context of medico-legal opinions. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2020; 16:3-11. [PMID: 31463781 PMCID: PMC7069893 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-019-00162-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The detection of intracranial gas (ICG) in people who died due to trauma became possible once postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) became available in addition to traditional post-mortem examinations. The aim of this study was to determine the importance of ICG in the context of medico-legal opinions. We assessed 159 cases of trauma-induced death. Cadavers with pronounced signs of decomposition, open skull fractures, and after neurosurgical operations were excluded. Both PMCT findings and data from autopsy reports were analyzed. ICG was found in 38.99% (n = 62) of the cadavers, 96.77% (n = 60) of which presented with pneumocephalus (PNC) and 40.23% (n = 25) with intravascular gas (IVG). There was a strong correlation between ICG and skull fractures/brain injuries, as well as chest injuries, especially lung injuries. In 13 cases, ICG presented without skull fractures; three of these cases died as a result of stab and incised wounds to the neck and chest. The mean time between trauma and death was significantly longer in the non-ICG group than the ICG group at 2.94 days (0–48 days) and 0.01 day (0–1 day), respectively (p < 0.0001). The presence of ICG is a result of severe neck and chest injuries, including stab and incised wounds. The victims die in a very short amount of time after suffering trauma resulting in ICG. The ability to demonstrate ICG on PMCT scans can be of significance in forming medico-legal opinions.
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Khaliq MF, Shoaib M, Tariq SM, Khan MT. Cerebral air embolism from a Central Venous Catheter: A timely reminder of the importance of rapid diagnosis. BMJ Case Rep 2018; 2018:bcr-2018-225120. [PMID: 30115713 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2018-225120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral air embolism (CAE) is a rare, avoidable and potentially fatal iatrogenic complication. Here, we report a case of CAE associated with a central venous catheter in the internal jugular vein that resulted in neurological deficits and generalised epileptic seizures. A 64-year-old man admitted for fasciotomy for compartment syndrome developed CAE with left-sided neurological deficits. The suspected origin was retrograde air flow from the right internal jugular venous catheter. The air spontaneously resorbed without the need for specific therapy, and he made a good recovery. CAE is an infrequent iatrogenic complication that requires prompt diagnosis to avoid significant morbidity and mortality. This case serves as a timely reminder that adverse outcome such as stroke, seizures or death can be avoided by a high index of suspicion and prompt diagnosis. Hyperbaric oxygen is the prime therapeutic measure, but high-quality evidence on its clinical value is lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Shoaib
- Department of Neurology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
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6
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Cortical Blindness and Altered Mental Status following Routine Hemodialysis, a Case of Iatrogenic Cerebral Air Embolism. Case Rep Emerg Med 2018; 2018:9496818. [PMID: 29732225 PMCID: PMC5872667 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9496818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral air embolism is a known complication from a myriad of iatrogenic causes. This case describes a 60-year-old female presenting from hemodialysis with altered mental status, bilateral homonymous hemianopia, and repetitive speech. A noncontrast head CT revealed air in the vein of Galen and the deep cerebral veins of the left thalamus and occipital sulcus, a complication from air being introduced into the patient via improper flushing of dialysis tubing. The retrograde flow of air bubbles in the upright patient during dialysis was likely responsible for the air embolus lodging in the cerebral vasculature. This patient was transferred to receive hyperbaric therapy, whereupon the patient survived with residual attention and spatial deficits.
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Parkinson NJ, McKenzie HC, Barton MH, Davis JL, Dunkel B, Johnson AL, MacDonald ES. Catheter-associated venous air embolism in hospitalized horses: 32 cases. J Vet Intern Med 2018; 32:805-814. [PMID: 29460300 PMCID: PMC5866986 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Revised: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Venous air embolism is a potentially life‐threatening complication of IV catheter use in horses. Despite widespread anecdotal reports of their occurrence, few cases have been reported in the literature and the prognosis is currently unknown. Hypothesis/Objectives Our objective was to describe the surrounding circumstances, clinical signs, treatment, progression, and outcome of venous air embolism in hospitalized horses. Animals Thirty‐two horses with acute onset of compatible clinical signs associated with IV catheter disconnection or damage. Methods Multicenter retrospective study. Data extracted from clinical records included signalment, presenting complaint, catheter details, clinical signs, treatments, and outcome. Results Most cases resulted from extension set disconnection occurring within approximately 24 hours after catheter placement. In fewer horses, extension set damage was cited as a cause. Common clinical signs included tachycardia, tachypnea, recumbency, muscle fasciculations and agitation, with abnormal behavior including kicking and flank biting. Less commonly, pathological arrhythmias or more severe neurologic signs, including blindness and seizures, were noted. Progression was unpredictable, with some affected horses developing delayed‐onset neurologic signs. Mortality was 6/32 (19%), including 2 cases of sudden death and other horses euthanized because of persistent neurologic deficits. Negative outcomes were more common in horses with recorded blindness, sweating or recumbency, but blindness resolved in 5/8 affected horses. Conclusions and Clinical Importance The prognosis for resolution of clinical signs after air embolism is fair, but permanent neurologic deficits or pathologic cardiac arrhythmias can arise. Unpredictable progression warrants close monitoring. Systematic clinic‐based surveillance could provide additional useful information to aid prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Parkinson
- Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, Virginia.,Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, United Kingdom
| | - Harold C McKenzie
- Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Michelle H Barton
- University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, Athens, Georgia
| | - Jennifer L Davis
- Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Bettina Dunkel
- The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Amy L Johnson
- New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
| | - Elizabeth S MacDonald
- Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center, Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Leesburg, Virginia
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8
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Myers GJ. Air in intravenous lines: a need to review old opinions. Perfusion 2017; 32:432-435. [DOI: 10.1177/0267659117706834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Brull SJ, Prielipp RC. Vascular air embolism: A silent hazard to patient safety. J Crit Care 2017; 42:255-263. [PMID: 28802790 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2017.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 07/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To narratively review published information on prevention, detection, pathophysiology, and appropriate treatment of vascular air embolism (VAE). MATERIALS AND METHODS MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Cochrane Central Register and Google Scholar databases were searched for data published through October 2016. The Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database was queried for "air embolism" reports (years 2011-2016). RESULTS VAE may be introduced through disruption in the integrity of the venous circulation that occurs during insertion, maintenance, or removal of intravenous or central venous catheters. VAE impacts pulmonary circulation, respiratory and cardiac function, systemic inflammation and coagulation, often with serious or fatal consequences. When VAE enters arterial circulation, air emboli affect cerebral blood flow and the central nervous system. New medical devices remove air from intravenous infusions. Early recognition and treatment reduce the clinical sequelae of VAE. An organized team approach to treatment including clinical simulation can facilitate preparedness for VAE. The MAUDE database included 416 injuries and 95 fatalities from VAE. Data from the American Society of Anesthesiologists Closed Claims Project showed 100% of claims for VAE resulted in a median payment of $325,000. CONCLUSIONS VAE is an important and underappreciated complication of surgery, anesthesia and medical procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sorin J Brull
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.
| | - Richard C Prielipp
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Wong SSM, Kwaan HC, Ing TS. Venous air embolism related to the use of central catheters revisited: with emphasis on dialysis catheters. Clin Kidney J 2017; 10:797-803. [PMID: 29225809 PMCID: PMC5716215 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfx064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Venous air embolism is a dreaded condition particularly relevant to the field of nephrology. In the face of a favourable, air-to-blood pressure gradient and an abnormal communication between the atmosphere and the veins, air entrance into the circulation is common and can bring about venous air embolism. These air emboli can migrate to different areas through three major routes: pulmonary circulation, paradoxical embolism and retrograde ascension to the cerebral venous system. The frequent undesirable outcome of this disease entity, despite timely and aggressive treatment, signifies the importance of understanding the underlying pathophysiological mechanism and of the implementation of various preventive measures. The not-that-uncommon occurrence of venous air embolism, often precipitated by improper patient positioning during cervical catheter procedures, suggests that awareness of this procedure-related complication among health care workers is not universal. This review aims to update the pathophysiology of venous air embolism and to emphasize the importance of observing the necessary precautionary measures during central catheter use in hopes of eliminating this unfortunate but easily avoidable mishap in nephrology practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Siu-Man Wong
- Department of Medicine, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hau C Kwaan
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Todd S Ing
- Department of Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
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Kietaibl C, Engel A, Horvat Menih I, Huepfl M, Erdoes G, Kubista B, Ullrich R, Windhager R, Markstaller K, Klein K. Detection and differentiation of cerebral microemboli in patients undergoing major orthopaedic surgery using transcranial Doppler ultrasound. Br J Anaesth 2017; 118:400-406. [DOI: 10.1093/bja/aex001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
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12
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Yang TK. Spontaneous Absorption of Cerebral Air Embolus Developed Accidentally during an Intra-arterial Procedure. J Cerebrovasc Endovasc Neurosurg 2017; 18:391-395. [PMID: 28184351 PMCID: PMC5298983 DOI: 10.7461/jcen.2016.18.4.391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Revised: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral arterial air embolism (CAAE), although infrequent, is a complication that can occur at any time during an invasive medical procedure. We experienced two cases of CAAE during cerebral angiography accidentally. The author reports the two cases of CAAE wherein air emboli dissolved spontaneously and immediately under normal atmospheric pressure, not under therapeutic hyperbaric environment. One of the cases shows entire dissolution of the air embolus on the moving image. This report shows that arterial air embolus can be absorbed spontaneously, and air embolus size is one of the factors that influence air embolus dissolution besides hyperbaric oxygen condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae Ki Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Korea
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Cerebral Air Embolism: A Clinical, Radiologic and Histopathologic Correlation. Am J Forensic Med Pathol 2016; 37:241-244. [PMID: 27763884 DOI: 10.1097/paf.0000000000000276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral air embolism is a recognized life-threatening complication, sometimes iatrogenic. Its timely diagnosis is essential because it can result in neurologic deficits or death. We report a case of a 58-year-old man who died from cerebral air embolism diagnosed by nonenhanced computed tomography scan of the head after a cardiac bypass surgery with Biventricular Assist Device and multiple vascular line placements. Autopsy revealed extensive subcutaneous emphysema, intravascular and perivascular air bubbles in the central nervous system and associated cerebral and cerebellar hemorrhagic infarction. The autopsy was helpful in documenting the extent of the air embolism and its appearance in soft tissue and central nervous system.
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Fatal Cerebral Air Embolism: A Case Series and Literature Review. Case Rep Crit Care 2016; 2016:3425321. [PMID: 27635266 PMCID: PMC5011199 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3425321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral air embolism (CAE) is an infrequently reported complication of routine medical procedures. We present two cases of CAE. The first patient was a 55-year-old male presenting with vomiting and loss of consciousness one day after his hemodialysis session. Physical exam was significant for hypotension and hypoxia with no focal neurologic deficits. Computed tomography (CT) scan of head showed gas in cerebral venous circulation. The patient did not undergo any procedures prior to presentation, and his last hemodialysis session was uneventful. Retrograde rise of venous air to the cerebral circulation was the likely mechanism for venous CAE. The second patient was a 46-year-old female presenting with fever, shortness of breath, and hematemesis. She was febrile, tachypneic, and tachycardic and required intubation and mechanical ventilation. An orogastric tube inserted drained 2500 mL of bright red blood. Flexible laryngoscopy and esophagogastroduodenoscopy were performed. She also underwent central venous catheter placement. CT scan of head performed the next day due to absent brain stem reflexes revealed intravascular air within cerebral arteries. A transthoracic echocardiogram with bubble study ruled out patent foramen ovale. The patient had a paradoxical CAE in the absence of a patent foramen ovale.
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