Delayed air embolism during vascular surgery.

Air embolism occurred in a 25-year-old patient undergoing surgery for reconstruction of the subclavian vein. Air embolism probably occurred twice, the second time at about an hour after closure of the vein. The cause of this delayed air embolism is discussed. We conclude that capnographic monitoring for air embolism is advisable whenever surgery is performed on a patient in the half-sitting position, and that inserting a central venous catheter to facilitate removal of the air in the event of massive air embolism may be wise.