Computed Tomographic Identification and Management of Iatrogenic Venous Air Embolism in Two Pet Rabbits (Oryctolagus...

To describe two rabbits with iatrogenic venous vascular air embolism (VAE) confirmed with computed tomography (CT), their management, and the possible risk factors for air embolism specific to hospitalized rabbits.

Iatrogenic VAE is a risk to human and veterinary patients who undergo multiple procedures, including routine IV catheter placement. Review of past experimental studies suggests that rabbits may be especially susceptible to the harmful effects of air emboli, attributed to both their small relative body size and their unique systemic sensitivity. Two rabbits at a tertiary referral hospital were diagnosed with VAE using CT. The air was presumably introduced through their IV catheters. One rabbit experienced immediate cardiopulmonary arrest and died, while early detection and intervention resulted in the survival of the other rabbit.

This case series is the first to describe CT-confirmed air embolism in rabbits and the first report of successful management of a VAE in this species with long-term survival.