MASSIVE AIR-EMBOLISM - A CASE-REPORT

We describe a case where massive air embolism occurred while infusing fluid under pressure with a pressurized infusion system, with fluid ba gs which contained volumes of air from the manufacturer. We suggest th at anesthesiologists by meticulous in de-airing the infusion bag befor e connecting it to the intravenous infusion system. Also, if the manuf acturers of crystalloid solutions would produce their product devoid o f air, then this inherent risk would be substantially decreased. (C) 1 998 by Elsevier Science Inc.