Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 14, 2026

A Porcine Model of Acute Autologous Pulmonary Embolism
Published on: September 6, 2024
[Air embolism after removal of central venous catheter]
Ursula Wild1, Jerome M Defosse, Frank Wappler
1Klinik für Anästhesiologie und operative Intensivmedizin des Krankenhauses Köln-Merheim, Germany. wildu@kliniken-koeln.de
Abstract:
Placement and removal of central venous catheters (CVC) are routine procedures in anesthesiology and on the intensive care unit. There are numerous possible complications associated with those interventions. Here, we report on a patient who developed respiratory failure immediately after removal of a CVC. The proof of air bubbles in echocardiography confirmed the diagnosis of air embolism. In this article we describe causes, symptoms and therapy of air embolism.
Related Concept Videos
Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
Cardiac Catheterization II: Right Heart Catheterization
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Pulmonary Embolism III: Nursing Management
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management
