Systemic Air Embolism

Systemic air embolism is a rare but potentially devastating complication of percutaneous chest biopsy that requires immediate diagnosis and rapid initiation of aggressive, noninvasive rescue therapy to prevent death or permanent neurologic sequelae. Radiologists focused on the most common complications of chest biopsy such as pneumothorax and parenchymal hemorrhage run the risk of failing to quickly diagnose and effectively treat systemic air embolism. Furthermore, the low incidence of symptomatic air embolism may lead to complacency and failure to prepare proper institutional procedures for the effective treatment. This case reviews the incidence, postulated mechanisms, and treatment of systemic air embolism caused by percutaneous chest biopsy.

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