ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Published Online: 1 October 1985
Page Count: 3

Air Embolism Complicating Percutaneous Ultrasonic Lithotripsy
Hobin, FP
Associate medical examiner, Office of the Medical Examiner, Criminal Justice Complex, FL

(Received 25 January 1985; accepted 1 March 1985)

Abstract

This is a report of a lethal venous air embolism complicating percutaneous ultrasonic lithotripsy. Sudden death occurred during the course of the procedure. Evidence of air embolism was detected at autopsy. Air embolism occurred because a suction pump was connected backwards, forcing air into the urinary tract rather than aspirating irrigating fluid as intended. This mishap has not previously been reported as a complication of this procedure.

Keywords:
pathology and biology, embolisms, lithotripsy

Paper ID: JFS11077J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11077J
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