Abstract
Percutaneous transthoracic needle biopsy is a common procedure in interventional radiology. Systemic arterial air embolism causing cerebral infarction is a rare but much feared complication of percutaneous lung biopsy. We present a comprehensive review of iatrogenic air embolism post-lung biopsy, a complication that is often sub optimally managed. Patho-physiology, clinical features, and risk factors and management are reviewed.
Highlights
A Computed Tomography (CT)-guided needle lung biopsy is a common intervenetional radiology procedure
We present a comprehensive review of iatrogenic air embolism post-lung biopsy, a complication that is often sub optimally managed
Percutaneous lung biopsy is one of the most common procedures performed in radiology departments
Summary
A CT-guided needle lung biopsy is a common intervenetional radiology procedure. Percutaneous lung biopsy is considered as a safe and effective method for obtaining a tissue diagnosis in patients with lung masses. Intrapulmonary hemorrhage, hemoptysis, air embolism, seeding of the biopsy tract, and death. The most common complication, pneumothorax, is treated by radiologists and is typically associated with no long-term sequela. Air embolism as a complication is extremely rare; it can become fatal when it happens. Diagnosis and rapid application of hyperbaric oxygen therapy are the mainstay of treatment
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