title: Venous air embolus during scalp incision.
abstract: Venous air embolism (VAE) is a known complication of sitting craniotomy. Clinical consequences of VAE can range from tachypnea to cardiovascular collapse. The entrainment of air typically occurs during bone work, but we describe a case in which a VAE was recognized while working on the scalp. Monitoring techniques are critical for early treatment of VAE to avoid more serious complications, and our case illustrates the need to implement monitors early and remain vigilant throughout the procedure.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anesthesiology, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
authors.forename: Nicole Z
authors.initials: NZ
authors.lastname: Spence
authors.affiliation: Department of Anesthesiology, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
authors.forename: Kathryn
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Faloba
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurological Surgery, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
authors.forename: Adam M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Sonabend
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurological Surgery, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
authors.forename: Jeffrey N
authors.initials: JN
authors.lastname: Bruce
authors.affiliation: Department of Anesthesiology, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, 622 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA. Electronic address: zh2114@columbia.edu.
authors.forename: Zirka H
authors.initials: ZH
authors.lastname: Anastasian
mesh_terms: D003399:Craniotomy / Q000009:adverse effects; D004618:Embolism, Air / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D012535:Scalp / Q000601:surgery*; D000072836:Surgical Wound / Q000150:complications*
keywords: Air embolism; Anesthesia; VAE