Journal of neurosurgical nursing
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Tension pneumocephalus occurs when intracranial air exists under pressure, resulting in neurologic deterioration. The syndrome is precluded by an extracranial-intracranial communication and a difference in extracranial-intracranial pressure with the latter being greater. ⋯ This article will address pathogenesis, assessment parameters, and medical and nursing approaches utilized to reduce and minimize further entrapment of air. A case report will be presented illustrating this condition.
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If left undetected and untreated in the operating room, air embolism can be a potentially lethal event. It is important to be aware of the specific positions and surgical procedures that put a patient at risk for air emboli. This article will define air embolism, discuss its occurrence and effects on the body, review specific monitoring techniques used to detect intravascular air, and present techniques used for prevention and treatment by the operating room staff.