What Researchers Did
The researchers presented a case report about a patient who experienced a massive air embolism during an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which caused symptoms similar to a stroke.
What They Found
They found that cerebral air embolism should be considered when stroke-like symptoms appear during any invasive medical procedure. They suggested that transporting patients to a hospital with neurosurgical or hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) facilities could improve their recovery. Importantly, the study noted that the absence of air on a CT scan should not disqualify a patient from receiving HBOT if an air embolism is suspected.
Canadian Relevance
This study is not Canadian. However, it covers arterial gas embolism, which is a Health Canada-recognised indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
As a case report, this study describes the experience of only one patient, meaning its findings may not apply to all individuals.