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Ann Thorac Surg 1981;32:602-603
© 1981 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons

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Articles

Massive Air Embolism during Cardiopulmonary Bypass: Successful Treatment with Immediate Hypothermia and Circulatory Support

From the Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Naples Second Medical School, Naples, Italy

Accepted for publication November 6, 1980.

^* Address reprint requests to Dr. Stassano, Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Naples Second Medical School, 5 via S. Pansini, 80131 Naples, Italy

Two patients experienced an episode of massive air embolism during extracorporeal circulation. Several emergency measures were taken. (1) The roller pump was reversed to take out air from the aorta. (2) The circuit was disconnected and recirculated to eliminate air bubbles. (3) Perfusion was restarted and the patient cooled to 24°C for 40 minutes. (4) Pentothal (thiopental), steroids, and assisted ventilation were administered. The outcome was favorable in both patients, and there were no neurological sequelae. Immediate cooling and prolonged circulation seem to be a satisfactory approach to this problem.

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