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Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Robotic-assisted Bronchoscopy Combined with Multimodal Imaging for Targeted Lung Cryobiopsies
Published on: July 19, 2024
Systemic Air Embolism Leading to Cardiorespiratory Arrest Following a CT-Guided Biopsy: A Case Report
Daniel Aparício1, Miguel L Mendes2, Rita Almeida3
1Internal Medicine, Unidade Local de Saúde Viseu Dão-Lafões, Viseu, PRT.
Abstract:
CT-guided transthoracic lung biopsy is a commonly performed procedure for diagnosing pulmonary lesions. While generally safe, it has known risks. Pneumothorax, pulmonary hemorrhage, and hemoptysis are among the most frequent complications. Although rare, serious complications such as air embolism can occur, and while uncommon, it is a potentially life-threatening condition that may result from this procedure. It can lead to acute ischemic stroke or acute myocardial infarction, which can be fatal. Here, we describe a case of a 72-year-old man with a right lower lobe pulmonary nodule who had a cardiorespiratory arrest due to air embolism due to a CT-guided biopsy of the pulmonary nodule found on a previous CT scan of the chest. The patient was successfully resuscitated and intubated for mechanical ventilation and admitted to an intensive care unit. He was later transferred to the pulmonology unit and discharged home in stable condition.
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