Neonatal Cerebral Air Embolism

Vascular air embolism (VAE) is rare but potentially lethal condition, and survival is rarely reported in newborn.

A preterm (27+1 weeks) neonate on Continuous positive airway pressure developed sudden cardiac asystole on day 3 of life and required 30 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Infant had air embolism in liver and brain. He survived but developed cystic encephalomalcia requiring extensive neuro-rehabilitation.

Air embolism should be considered as differential diagnosis of sudden unexplained cardiac deterioration in well neonate.