2020 Volume 24 Issue 1 Pages 123-126
We experienced a case of air embolism as a complication of computed tomography (CT)-guided lung needle biopsy (CTNB), resulting in circulatory collapse and cerebral infarction. A 74-year-old female with a lung tumor underwent CTNB in the left lateral position. As soon as she returned to the supine position after the procedure, she developed circulatory collapse. Chest CT demonstrated an air embolism in the right coronary artery. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was initiated, followed by insertion of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP). Although cardiac function was restored the next day and the IABP was removed, neurological examination revealed left upper limb paralysis. Brain CT showed multiple cerebral infarctions due to air emboli in the cerebral vessels. Fortunately, neurological symptoms improved following cerebral protective treatment and rehabilitation. It is important for medical teams to be aware that since air embolism can be a fatal complication of CTNB, it requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate intervention.
