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Semin intervent Radiol 2014; 31(04): 375-377
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1393975
Morbidity and Mortality
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Systemic Air Embolism following Percutaneous Lung Biopsy

Raja Ramaswamy
1   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of California, San Diego, California
,
Kazim H. Narsinh
1   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of California, San Diego, California
,
August Tuan
1   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of California, San Diego, California
,
Thomas B. Kinney
1   Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of California, San Diego, California
› Author Affiliations
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Publication Date:
14 November 2014 (online)

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Systemic air embolism is a serious complication that may occur during a transthoracic percutaneous lung biopsy. Although rarely encountered, sequelae from systemic air embolism may result in a wide range of cardiac and neurologic presentations that are potentially fatal. Prompt clinical and radiologic recognition of systemic air embolism can prevent significant morbidity and mortality. The authors performed a transthoracic percutaneous lung biopsy that was complicated by seizures and transient neurologic deficits. In this article, a case of percutaneous lung biopsy complicated by a systemic arterial air embolism is presented, and strategies for prevention and management of this complication are discussed.

 

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