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Paradoxical air embolism during hepatic resection
1Department of Anesthesiology, Ajou University, School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea.
British Journal of Anaesthesia
|March 9, 2002
Summary
Systemic venous air embolism is a risk during liver surgery for chronic liver disease. Transesophageal echocardiography detected paradoxical air embolism in a patient with cirrhosis undergoing hepatic resection.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Hepatology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Systemic venous air embolism poses a significant risk during hepatic surgery in patients with chronic liver disease.
- Intrapulmonary arteriovenous shunting can facilitate the passage of air emboli from the venous to the arterial circulation.
Observation:
- A case of paradoxical air embolism was observed in a patient with cirrhosis undergoing hepatic resection.
- Transesophageal echocardiography was utilized for the detection of the air embolism.
Findings:
- The study highlights the potential for venous air embolism to enter systemic circulation via intrapulmonary shunting.
- Paradoxical air embolism was confirmed using transesophageal echocardiography in a cirrhotic patient.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of vigilance for paradoxical air embolism in liver surgery patients.
- Transesophageal echocardiography is a valuable tool for diagnosing air embolism during hepatic procedures.
- Awareness of this complication can guide preventative strategies and improve patient outcomes in liver surgery.