Fatal cerebral air embolism after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

Safety and efficacy of carbon dioxide insufflation during gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection

“…Although air is commonly used for insufflation, it results in the retention of a large amount of residual gas after ESD. Residual gas in the gastrointestinal tract can induce post-ESD pain or discomfort, and in rare cases can give rise to life-threatening complications such as air embolism and tension pneumothorax [9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17] . It is well known that carbon dioxide (CO2) is absorbed faster in the body than air and is also rapidly excreted through the lungs, except in cases of pulmonary dysfunction.…”

Safety of carbon dioxide insufflation during gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection in patients with pulmonary dysfunction under conscious sedation

“…Residual gas in the gastrointestinal tract can induce post-ESD pain or discomfort. In addition, it possibly leads to rare but life-threatening complications such as air embolism and tension pneumothorax [9][10][11][12][13][14][15].It is well known that carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) is absorbed faster in the body than air and is also rapidly excreted through the lungs, except in cases of pulmonary dysfunction. Therefore, CO 2 insufflation is expected to reduce patient pain and abdominal discomfort associated with endoscopic examination and therapy [16][17][18][19][20][21][22].…”

“…Residual gas in the gastrointestinal tract can induce post-ESD pain or discomfort. In addition, it possibly leads to rare but life-threatening complications such as air embolism and tension pneumothorax [9][10][11][12][13][14][15].…”

Systemic air embolism after ERCP: a case report and review of the literature (with video)

“…[1][2][3][4][5][6][7] The precise mechanism of this complication is unknown and likely varies depending on the case (Table 1). Air can pass directly into the hepatic veins 3 or traverse the portal circulation.…”