Massive air embolism: a case report.
We describe a case where massive air embolism occurred while infusing fluid under pressure with a pressurized infusion system, with fluid bags which contained volumes of air from the manufacturer. We suggest that anesthesiologists be meticulous in de-airing the infusion bag before connecting it to the intravenous infusion system. Also, if the manufacturers of crystalloid solutions would produce their product devoid of air, then this inherent risk would be substantially decreased.
Adhikary
G S
GS
Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor 48109-0048, USA.
Massey
S R
SR
D001794:Blood Pressure / Q000502:physiology; D001026:Coronary Artery Bypass; D004618:Embolism, Air / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D007260:Infusion Pumps / Q000009:adverse effects*; D007431:Intraoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged