Cerebral air embolism secondary to intra-aortic balloon pump rupture.
BACKGROUND
Cerebral air embolism is a neurological emergency. It has been reported following cardiac catheterization, central venous catheter insertion, and cardiothoracic surgery.


RESULTS
We report a case of massive cerebral air embolism secondary to intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) rupture. Computed tomography (CT) of the brain showed serpiginous hypodensities following the sulci associated with hypodense brain parenchymal lesions.


CONCLUSIONS
The prompt recognition of cerebral air embolism secondary to IABP rupture requires a high level of suspicion and is confirmed by head CT.
Cruz-Flores
Salvador
S
Souers Stroke Institute, Department of Neurology, St. Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA. cruzfls@slu.edu
Diamond
Alan L
AL
Leira
Enrique C
EC
D004618:Embolism, Air / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D004868:Equipment Failure; D006801:Humans; D007423:Intra-Aortic Balloon Pumping / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation*; D020766:Intracranial Embolism / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography