Air embolism following peripheral intravenous access

Abstract

Air embolism is a rare, often misdiagnosed, potentially fatal condition. It is most frequently associated with invasive vascular procedures and mechanical ventilation. Air emboli developing from peripheral intravenous lines are uncommon. We present a case of symptomatic venous air embolism likely arising from peripheral intravenous access gained during an interventional pain procedure. This case highlights the need to consider air embolism in the differential diagnoses of patients presenting with neurological symptoms following vascular interventions.

Arterial and Venous Air Emboli in Health Care

“…Small volumes of IV air may not be lethal, but they can (and are) linked to strokes. In fact, many reports relating to strokes associated with intravascular air continue to appear in the literature (21)(22)(23)(24). Considering the potential for air bubbles to enter the venous circulation, we have to wonder why harm associated with IV air is not taken more seriously.…”

Air embolism caused by peripheral superficial vein catheterization: A case report

“…[ 12 , 13 ] The patient’s posture is also important, The left and Trendelenburg confine the bubble to the right ventricular tip, reduces the production of foam blood and relieves air locking between the pulmonary artery and the right ventricle. [ 14 , 15 ] However, the clinical situation is complex and the position should be taken according to the actual situation of the patient. Our patients are in an acute stage of cerebral hemorrhage and do not take the Trendelenburg position.…”

Suicide by air embolism introduced by means of a bicycle pump

“…Gas embolisms are more frequently described in connection to medical procedures like the use of rapid infusion systems, invasive vascular procedures and neurosurgical procedures [17] as with, for example, cuts or stab wounds [18,19], gunshot wounds to the head [20,21] or open craniocerebral injuries [22][23][24]; however, gas embolism is not inevitable in these cases [25,26]. Furthermore, gas embolism can occur in connection with medical malpractice [4][5][6][7][8].…”