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Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery

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Open Access 01-12-2016 | Case report

Fatal air embolism as complication of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy on venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, two case reports

Authors: Achim Lother, Tobias Wengenmayer, Christoph Benk, Christoph Bode, Dawid L. Staudacher

Published in: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery | Issue 1/2016

Abstract

Background

Tracheostomy is recommended in case of prolonged mechanical ventilation. Therefore, most patients with an indication for venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) will also have an indication for tracheostomy.

Case presentation

We report 2 cases of fatal air embolism into the ECMO system as complication of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy. Both patients had an AVALON ELITE® bi-caval cannula implanted draining blood from the vena cava superior and inferior.

Conclusion

Since there is limited safety data on this specific group of patients, a routine early dilatational tracheostomy might be associated with a significant risk.

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Title: Fatal air embolism as complication of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy on venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, two case reports
Authors: Achim Lother
Tobias Wengenmayer
Christoph Benk
Christoph Bode
Dawid L. Staudacher
Publication date: 01-12-2016
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery / Issue 1/2016
Electronic ISSN: 1749-8090
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13019-016-0489-9

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Fatal air embolism as complication of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy on venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, two case reports

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusion

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusion

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