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Acute Coronary Artery Air Embolism Complicating a CT-guided percutaneous lung biopsy: A case report

Haotian Lu1, Jieqiong Yu2, Hongliang Sun3

  • 1China-Japan Friendship Hospital (Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, China.

Heliyon
|March 21, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Systemic air embolism is a rare but fatal risk of CT-guided lung biopsy. This case highlights acute coronary artery air embolism, successfully treated with Trendelenburg positioning and angiography.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Radiology
  • Pulmonary Medicine

Background:

  • Computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous lung biopsy is a common diagnostic procedure.
  • Systemic air embolism is a known, albeit rare, fatal complication.
  • Early recognition and prompt management are crucial for patient outcomes.

Observation:

  • A patient developed acute cardiac symptoms immediately following a CT-guided percutaneous lung biopsy.
  • Imaging revealed air density within the left ventricle and aorta, consistent with systemic air embolism.
  • The specific complication involved air entering the coronary arteries.

Findings:

  • The patient presented with symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndrome.
  • CT scan confirmed the presence of air in the cardiac chambers and aorta.
  • The air embolism affected the coronary arteries, a critical finding.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of vigilance for systemic air embolism after lung biopsies.
  • Prompt intervention, including Trendelenburg positioning and coronary angiography, can lead to successful recovery.
  • Further research into preventative strategies and optimized management protocols for this complication is warranted.

Keywords:
Acute coronary syndromeAir embolismCT-guided lung biopsyCase reportCoronary angiographyTrendelenburg position

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