Massive Intraventricular Air Embolism after Contrast-enhanced CT: Report of Two Cases.
10.3348/jkrs.2006.54.5.349
- Author:
Heon LEE
1
Author Information
1. Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Seoul Medical Center, Korea. acarad@dreamwiz.com
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Embolism;
Computed tomography (CT), contrast media;
Computed tomography (CT), contrast enhancement
- MeSH:
Embolism;
Embolism, Air*;
Humans;
Tomography, X-Ray Computed*
- From:Journal of the Korean Radiological Society
2006;54(5):349-352
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Venous air embolism, although considered as a rare condition, it occurs more frequently than it is recognized. Air embolism has been reported to occur after contrast-enhanced CT examination in up to 23% of patients. Because these emboli are usually small to moderate size and they are venous, the patients are usually asymptomatic. However, a large amount of intravenous air can cause disastrous consequences and it can be fatal. The author reports here on 2 cases of symptomatic massive intraventricular air embolism after contrast enhanced CT with a brief review of the pathophysiology and the recommended treatment of air embolization.
