[Arterial air embolism during anesthesia for percutaneous pulmonary node location: case report.]

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Pulmonology

Context:

• Arterial air embolism is a rare but life-threatening complication during surgical procedures.
• General anesthesia is frequently employed for minimally invasive interventions like CT-guided pulmonary nodule localization.
• This case highlights a critical event during a routine procedure.

Purpose:

• To report a case of arterial air embolism during percutaneous CT-guided pulmonary nodule localization under general anesthesia.
• To emphasize the importance of anesthesiologist preparedness in recognizing and managing this complication.
• To underscore the critical role of timely intervention in reducing patient morbidity and mortality.

Summary:

• A 33-year-old male with ASA II status experienced arterial hypotension, bradycardia, and asystole during a percutaneous pulmonary nodule localization procedure under general anesthesia.
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and transthoracic echocardiography revealed air in the descending aorta, confirming arterial air embolism.
• The patient's cardiac arrest was reversed, and he was discharged without sequelae after 6 days in the ICU.

Impact:

• Highlights the potential for severe complications even in seemingly low-risk procedures.
• Reinforces the need for anesthesiologists to maintain vigilance and be prepared for rare but critical events.
• Underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and effective management strategies for arterial air embolism to improve patient outcomes.