We report a case of a 59 year old man who developed
venous air embolism (VAE) during an elective craniotomy for
parasagittal meningioma resection. The surgery was done in
the supine position with slightly elevated head position. VAE was provisionally diagnosed by sudden decreased in the
end tidal carbon dioxide pressure from 34 to 18 mmHg,
followed by marked hypotension and atrial fibrillation.
Prompt central venous blood aspiration, aggressive
resuscitation and inotropic support managed to stabilize the patient. Post operatively, he was admitted in neuro intensive care unit and made a good recovery without serious complications.