Clinical features of venous air embolism and its correlation with cough in deep brain stimulation surgery / 实用医学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the clinical features of VAE and to assess the predictive value of VAE cough. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 461 consecutive patients who underwent DBS surgery at Beijing Tiantan Hospital. Patients with VAE manifestation were enrolled in this study. The clinical features, operative courses, post-operative conditions and treatment of these patients were analyzed. The correlation between intraoperative tremor intensity , cough duration and prognosis was also investigated. Results Among 461 patients,10 (2.2%) were found with evidence of VAE, including cough, dyspnea, decreased O2 saturation (SO2). Statistical analyses revealed that severe cough was associated with greater age , a longer coughing time, more intensive tremor, greater influence, and a longer length of stay (P < 0.05, rspectively). Conclusions Early recognition and prompt management of VAE are essential to prevent unfavorable consequences. Cough intensity might be a useful tool for evaluating VAE and its prognosis , which is helpful for neurosurgeons to decide on the subsequent maneuvers.