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Venous air embolism through infusion sets. Theoretical considerations, model experiments and prevention
Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica
|January 1, 1978
Summary
Air can enter infusion sets through dry side drips or leaks, potentially causing air embolism. Designing infusion sets with distal clamps and ensuring tubing is below heart level can prevent air entry and enhance patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Patient Safety
- Fluid Dynamics
Background:
- Negative pressure in infusion tubing can lead to air entering the system from dry side drips or leaks.
- Air entry into infusion systems poses a risk, particularly during peripheral venous infusions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze pressure conditions in infusion sets and identify risks of air embolism.
- To propose design modifications for infusion sets to prevent air entry.
Main Methods:
- Model experiments were conducted to quantify air entry volumes from dry side drips during peripheral venous infusions.
- Analysis of pressure conditions within infusion tubing before and during infusion.
Main Results:
- Up to 13 ml of air per minute can enter the system from an empty side drip during peripheral venous infusion.
- Negative pressure can occur in significant portions of infusion tubing, facilitating air ingress.
Conclusions:
- Infusion set design should incorporate distal placement of clamps and side drip connections.
- Tubes for both main and side drips should be sufficiently long to be positioned below heart level, creating a waterlock to prevent air embolism.