A case of cardiac arrest due to air embolism during scoliosis surgery

Abstract

Cardiac arrest during scoliosis surgery is rare in idiopathic scoliosis. We present a case of cardiorespiratory collapse during corrective surgery in a young patient with idiopathic scoliosis. A diagnosis of venous air embolism was made by exclusion. A cardiorespiratory resuscitation was performed in supine position. Patient recovered without any sequelae and had operation completed 6 weeks later.