air embolism

Initial intraoperative diagnosis of air embolus is based on hypotension and decreased end tidal C[O.

Sudden neurological or cardiac events after manipulation of a CVC should call attention to a possible paradoxical air embolus.

Exploratory surgery determined that a suture had worn off and a crucial component had disconnected, permitting an air embolus to form.

Other causes included trauma, hypothermia, and late medical complications, but hypothermia and air embolus may be underestimated because of difficulties in diagnosing these conditions.