Coagulopathy following venous air embolism: a disastrous consequence -a case report-

Abstract

Venous air embolism (VAE) is a life-threatening complication of some surgical procedures. Though occurrence of VAE is frequent during neurosurgical procedures, coagulopathy following VAE has not previously been reported. Coagulation abnormalities are more commonly reported associated with fat or amniotic fluid embolism, but rarely with VAE. We present a case of massive VAE in sitting position leading to fatal coagulopathy even after successful resuscitation following the event. Coagulation abnormalities and bleeding can produce catastrophic consequences in neurosurgical patients. This report emphasizes the possibility of this potentially fatal complication in patients who have sustained a massive VAE.

Keywords

• air embolism
• coagulation abnormalities
• neurosurgical procedures
• sitting position