Case Report

Air Embolism After Intravenous Injection of Contrast Material

Authors: SUSANTI R. IE MD, MARK H. ROZANS MD, HAROLD M. SZERLIP MD

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Venous air embolism, though considered rare, occurs more frequently than it is recognized. We report the case of a 54-year-old man who was incidentally found to have air in the left brachiocephalic vein and right ventricle after contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT). Air embolism has been noted to occur after contrast-enhanced CT examination in up to 23% of patients. Because these emboli are small to moderate size and are usually venous, the patients are usually asymptomatic. We review the pathophysiology of air embolization and the recommended treatment.

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