Episode 132.0 – Air Embolism
This week we dive into the rare but potentially fatal, and difficult to diagnose, air embolism.
Show Notes
Take Home Points
- Air embolism is a rare but potentially fatal complication of central line placement and some surgical procedures and of course of as the result of barotrauma.
- Recognizing the signs and symptoms of air embolism can be tricky because it will look like any other ischemic process. Consider air embolism if you have a patient that rapidly decompensates after placement of a central line, the most likely culprit for those of us in the ED.
- Treatment should focus on supportive cares. Give supplemental O2, IV fluids and hemodynamic support and consider hyperbarics and cardiopulmonary bypass for the super sick patient.
Show Notes
Core EM: Air Embolism
Blanc et al. Iatrogenic cerebral air embolism: importance of an early hyperbaric oxygenation. Intensive Care Med. 2002; 28(5): 559-63. PMID 12029402
