Abstract
Introduction: Cerebral air embolism is a neurological emergency. It has been reported following cardiac catheterization, central venous catheter insertion, and cardiothoracic surgery.
Methods and Results: We report a case of massive cerebral air embolism secondary to intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) rupture. Computed tomography (CT) of the brain showed serpiginous hypodensities following the sulci associated with hypodense brain parenchymal lesions.
Conclusion: The prompt recognition of cerebral air embolism secondary to IABP rupture requires a high level of suspicion and is confirmed by head CT.
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Cruz-Flores, S., Diamond, A.L. & Leira, E.C. Cerebral air embolism secondary to intra-aortic balloon pump rupture. Neurocrit Care 2, 49–50 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1385/NCC:2:1:049
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1385/NCC:2:1:049