Cerebral air embolism due to disconnection of a central venous catheter.

ABSTRACT

A case of cerebral air embolism complicating disconnection of a central venous catheter is presented. In the context of increasing use of central venous catheterization this case highlights the risk of cerebral air embolism associated with the use of central venous catheters. In this case there was no patent foramen ovale and air must have passed from the venous to the cerebral circulation through physiologic shunts in the lung. Possible means of entry of air with central venous catheters, pathogenetic mechanisms relating to cerebral air embolism, treatment and preventative measures are also discussed.