Review Neurocrit Care 2023

Clinical Characteristics, Imaging Findings, and Outcomes of Cerebral Air Embolism

Brown A, Rabinstein A, Braksick S — Neurocrit Care, 2023

View Original on PubMed PMID 36627433

Tier 2, Indexed

Automatically imported from PubMed based on relevance criteria.

Summary

What Researchers Did

Researchers reviewed medical records from 15 patients at Mayo Clinic to understand the causes, symptoms, and outcomes of cerebral air embolism.

What They Found

Out of 15 patients, 80% had focal deficits and 53% experienced coma. Computed tomography (CT) scans detected free air in only 4 of 13 patients who underwent this imaging. While 40% of patients received hyperbaric oxygen therapy, its use was not linked to better functional outcomes after one year in this group.

Canadian Relevance

This study covers arterial gas embolism, which is a Health Canada-recognised indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Study Limitations

This study was limited by its small sample size of 15 patients and its retrospective design from a single institution.

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Study Details

Study Type	Review
Category	Neurological
Source	Pubmed
PubMed ID	36627433
Year Published	2023
Journal	Neurocrit Care
MeSH Terms	Humans; Coma; Embolism, Air; Retrospective Studies; Tomography, X-Ray Computed; Seizures; Hyperbaric Oxygenation

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Disclaimer: This study summary is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. The information presented reflects the findings of the original research authors and may not represent the views of Canada Hyperbarics. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making treatment decisions.

Last reviewed: April 16, 2026 | Reviewed by: Canada Hyperbarics Editorial Team | Editorial process | Research sources | Counts & methodology