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Cerebral arterial air embolism in a child after intraosseous infusion

R R van Rijn1, H Knoester, A Maes

  • 1Department of Radiology, Academic Medical Centre/Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. r.r.vanrijn@amc.uva.nl

Emergency Radiology
|February 6, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Cerebral arterial air embolism is a rare complication of medical procedures. This case highlights a potential risk of using intraosseous infusion systems during resuscitation in pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Interventions
  • Pediatric Critical Care
  • Vascular Complications

Background:

  • Cerebral arterial air embolism (CAAE) is a rare but serious complication.
  • Intraosseous (IO) infusion is a critical vascular access method in emergencies.
  • Previous reports of CAAE linked to IO systems are scarce.

Observation:

  • A 7-month-old female infant required resuscitation.
  • Tibial intraosseous infusion was utilized for vascular access.
  • The infant subsequently developed signs consistent with CAAE.

Findings:

  • This case details cerebral arterial air embolism following tibial IO infusion.
  • It represents a rare instance of this complication in a pediatric patient during resuscitation.
  • The findings underscore the potential for air embolism with IO access.

Implications:

  • Healthcare providers should be aware of CAAE as a potential complication of IO infusions.
  • Careful technique during IO access and fluid/medication administration is crucial.
  • Further investigation into the mechanisms and prevention of CAAE with IO systems may be warranted.

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