Page 32 - Virtual Vascular Vol 4

Air Embolism

1

2

nadvertant air entry into the pulmonary
Iand systemic circulation is a known risk of

certain pulmonary procedures. Symptoms
include sudden collapse or neurological
3 deficits resembling stroke. This happened

after a hook wire insertion of a lung nod-
ule.

This plain CT scan showed the rare features

of air in the ascending aorta (1), air in the
left ventricle (2), and the classic “dynamic
mercedes benz” sign (3) of a tri-radiate ap-

pearance of air due to heart pulsation.

Completion angiogram of the last patient above after EVAR showing very
good results of aneurysm exclusion and no endoleaks.

Are you aware of any specific treatment modalities for massive air embolism?

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