End-tidal carbon dioxide levels in the early detection of air embolism.
Two cases of air embolism in patients anaesthetized in the sitting position are described. The emboli, though producing no signs and therefore probably small, were readily detected by the fall in the end tidal CO2 fraction. Techniques for the detection of air emboli are briefly reviewed.
D002245:Carbon Dioxide / Q000032:analysis*; D004618:Embolism, Air / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011187:Posture; D012119:Respiration; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000009:adverse effects*
D002245:Carbon Dioxide