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An Unexpected Complication During Transaortic Valve Replacement
Diego Celli1, Jason Galo1, Cesar E Mendoza2
1Internal Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA.
Cureus
|December 30, 2020
Summary
Venous air embolism is a rare complication during procedures. Mechanical circulatory support successfully treated a patient experiencing cardiopulmonary collapse due to air embolism after transaortic valve replacement.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Anesthesiology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Venous air embolism (VAE) is a serious but uncommon complication during invasive procedures.
- The severity of VAE depends on the volume of air introduced, potentially leading to severe hemodynamic compromise.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing transaortic valve replacement (TAVR) developed VAE.
- This complication resulted in immediate cardiopulmonary collapse.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates a successful intervention for VAE-induced cardiopulmonary collapse.
- Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) was crucial in stabilizing the patient.
Implications:
- This case highlights the critical role of MCS in managing life-threatening VAE during TAVR.
- Early recognition and prompt MCS initiation can improve outcomes in such rare but severe complications.
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