• J Bradley White, Kent R Thielen, and David F Kallmes.
• Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
• Spine. 2009 Jun 15; 34 (14): 1526-8.

Study DesignTechnical report.ObjectiveTo convey the mechanism of venous air embolism (VAE) during percutaneous spinal procedures and its proper identification and management.Summary Of Background DataPercutaneous spinal procedures such as vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are commonplace techniques employed to alleviate back pain for compression fractures. VAE is a real and likely underappreciated phenomenon that is important to recognize.MethodsA case report is used to illustrate the clinical scenario of VAE during vertebroplasty performed for a T9 compression fracture.ResultsThe rapid sumping of fluid and air was identified during the procedure and believed to be due to a large air/venous interface within the trabecular bone. The needle was capped and no undue harm occurred to the patient.ConclusionVAE is a complication with associated morbidity and mortality from percutaneous procedures for the treatment of compression fractures. An understanding of the causes, prevention, identification, and management when it occurs will serve to improve patient care and reduce morbidity.

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