What Researchers Did
Researchers reviewed 83 case reports and series involving 97 patients to understand systemic air embolism, a rare but serious complication after CT-guided lung biopsies.
What They Found
Out of 1,136 studies screened, 83 were included, covering 97 patients. Systemic air embolism was fatal in 15 cases, with 12 of these patients experiencing cardiac arrest as their first symptom. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy was given to 34 patients.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
This study reminds healthcare providers and patients in Canada about the potential for systemic air embolism following CT-guided lung biopsies. It suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy should be considered if this rare complication is suspected.
Canadian Relevance
This study covers arterial gas embolism, which is a Health Canada-recognized indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
As a review of case reports and series, this study could not identify clear patterns for faster diagnosis or more effective management.