Venous air embolism (VAE)

Venous air embolism is a predominantly iatrogenic complication that occurs when atmospheric gas is introduced into the systemic venous system.

Air is entrained in the vein and can become trapped in the right atrium of the heart, which may impair venous return, causing hypotension. May also produce cardiac arrhythmias. Paradoxical air embolism can occur in the presence of a patent foramen ovale 1) or pulmonary AV fistula, and may produce ischemic cerebral infarction.


1)
Black S, Cucchiara RF, Nishimura RA, et al. Parameters Affecting Occurrence of Paradoxical Air Embolism. Anesthesiology. 1989; 71:235–241
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