Download PDF
Semin intervent Radiol 2019; 36(02): 068-071
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1688417
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Systemic Air Embolism following CT-Guided Percutaneous Core Needle Biopsy of the Lung: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Authors

  • Katherine Marchak

    1   Department of Radiology, University of Colorado | Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado

  • Michael J. Hong

    1   Department of Radiology, University of Colorado | Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado

  • Kristofer M. Schramm

    2   Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
22 May 2019 (online)

Also available at
  Permissions and Reprints
Preview

Abstract

Systemic air embolism (SAE) is a rare but serious complication of percutaneous core needle biopsy (PCNB) of the lung. Incidence of clinically apparent SAE is estimated at 0.061%, while clinically silent SAE may be as high as 3.8%. We present the complication of a small SAE during PCNB of the lung in a 78-year-old patient, which resulted in a transient myocardial ischemic event. This case highlights the importance of understanding the mechanism, frequency, and management of rare complications of PCNB of the lung; these complications should be considered in preoperative risk stratification. Regarding evaluation of postbiopsy computed tomography, operators should utilize a systematic search pattern to assess for complications.

Level of Evidence: Level 4, Case Report.

Keywords

serious complication - air embolism - lung biopsy - interventional radiology - percutaneous biopsy - CT guided lung biopsy