Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 5, 2025

Author Spotlight: Learning Systematic Bronchoscopy in a Simulation-Base Setting
Published on: June 23, 2023
Fatal air embolism: A grave complication during diagnostic flexible bronchoscopy
Sokol Bilali1, Valbona Bilali2, Blerina Saraci3
1University Hospital Center "Mother Teresa" Tirana Albania.
Abstract:
Flexible fiber-optic bronchoscopy is used to determine diagnoses in pulmonary diseases. It is considered as a safe procedure, although some complications might occur, one of which is cerebral air embolism. In this case, we present the air embolism after the bronchoscopy procedure, ending in fatality. We strongly recommend that bronchoscopists should keep this complication in mind and be aware of early symptoms pertaining to the patient's state of consciousness during bronchoscopy examination. Early treatment is essential in this situation.
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...
Endoscopic Studies I: Bronchoscopy and Thoracoscopy
Bronchoscopy
Description
Bronchoscopy is a procedure that involves direct visualization of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. A flexible fiber optic or rigid bronchoscope is used to carry out the procedure. The fiber-optic bronchoscope is more frequently used due...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Acute Respiratory Failure-II
The underlying physiological abnormalities that contribute to hypoxemic respiratory failure include:
Acute Respiratory Failure-III
Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction

