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[A case of posttraumatic cerebral air embolism]
1Department of Neurosurgery, Syuso Hospital, Ehime.
No Shinkei Geka. Neurological Surgery
|August 1, 1989
Summary
Cerebral air embolism after chest trauma is rare but can be missed. Early diagnosis via CT and skull X-rays is crucial for effective management of this condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Cerebral air embolism (CAE) is a serious condition often resulting from medical procedures or trauma.
- CAE can be challenging to diagnose due to non-specific clinical presentations.
Observation:
- A rare case of CAE following chest trauma is presented.
- Diagnosis was confirmed by computed tomography (CT) and skull roentgenogram, revealing intracranial arterial air bubbles.
- Air bubbles were detected on skull roentgenograms in only four reported cases, including this one.
Findings:
- CT findings in CAE include air, edema, and infarction.
- Air bubbles were visualized on CT in nine cases, including this one, typically within 12 hours of symptom onset.
- Lesions were often bilateral or unilateral, predominantly in cortical territories, with one case showing thalamic infarction.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and prevention are paramount in managing CAE.
- The detection of air bubbles on skull roentgenograms suggests a significant force may be required to introduce air into intracranial arteries.
- Further research into CT findings can aid in the timely diagnosis of CAE.