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Gas Embolism After a Patient's Ninth ERCP Procedure.
Helal Said Ahmad1, Sari Anne Cohen2, Tawfik Khoury1
1Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Nazareth Hospital EMMS, Nazareth, Israel.
ACG Case Reports Journal
|August 14, 2023
Summary
Gas embolism is a rare complication of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Prompt diagnosis and treatment of this serious condition led to a full recovery for a patient with common bile duct stones.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Complications
- Interventional Endoscopy
Background:
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions of the bile and pancreatic ducts.
- Gas embolism is a rare but potentially fatal complication that can occur during ERCP.
- Risk factors for gas embolism include bile duct stones and a history of multiple ERCP procedures.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old male patient developed gas embolism following a therapeutic ERCP for cholangitis.
- The patient had common bile duct stones and a history of multiple ERCP procedures, which are identified risk factors.
Findings:
- The patient experienced gas embolism, a serious complication of ERCP.
- Early diagnosis and prompt, aggressive treatment were crucial for the patient's outcome.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of recognizing and rapidly managing gas embolism after ERCP.
- Awareness of risk factors can aid in anticipating and preventing this complication.
- Successful management underscores the potential for full recovery even from severe complications.
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