Paradoxical air embolism during percutaneous nephrolithotomy due to patent foramen ovale: Case report

Authors

  • Daljeet Chahal University of British Columbia
  • Vladimir Ruzhynsky McMaster University
  • Iain McAuley
  • Desmond Sweeney
  • Paul Sobkin
  • Michael Kinahan
  • Rich Gardiner
  • John Kinahan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5489/cuaj.2835

Keywords:

PCNL, percutaneous nephrolithotomy, air embolus, patent foramen ovale

Abstract

Paradoxical air embolism is a very rare complication associated with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Incidence may be higher if patients also suffer from a septal heart defect. We report the case of a 76-year old male who presented for PCNL treatment of a right kidney lower calyceal calculus. During the procedure, the patient developed signs and symptoms consistent with that of air embolism. Intraoperative echocardiography confirmed the diagnosis. Subsequent intraoperative and postoperative medical management was carried out and the patient was discharged after recovery three days later. This case highlights the importance of a rare but potentially fatal complication of PCNL.

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Author Biography

Daljeet Chahal, University of British Columbia

Medical Student, Year 3

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Published

2015-09-09

How to Cite

Chahal, D., Ruzhynsky, V., McAuley, I., Sweeney, D., Sobkin, P., Kinahan, M., Gardiner, R., & Kinahan, J. (2015). Paradoxical air embolism during percutaneous nephrolithotomy due to patent foramen ovale: Case report. Canadian Urological Association Journal, 9(9-10), E658–60. https://doi.org/10.5489/cuaj.2835