What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review of 216 articles identified from EMBASE and MEDLINE to investigate the causes and management of ischaemic stroke resulting from nontissue emboli.
What They Found
The review categorized nontissue emboli into air embolism (141 reports), other arterial gas embolisms (49 reports), missiles and foreign bodies (16 reports), and other diverse causes. Air and gaseous embolisms are increasingly common due to interventional medical procedures and diving, with growing evidence supporting hyperbaric oxygen therapy for these events.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Patients undergoing medical procedures or engaging in activities like diving should be aware of the potential for nontissue emboli causing stroke. For certain types of emboli, such as air or gas, hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be an effective treatment option.
Canadian Relevance
This systematic review did not have a specific Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The study's reliance on individual reports and diverse causes of emboli may limit the generalizability and strength of evidence for specific management strategies.