Arterial Gas Embolism

Arterial Gas Embolism

Arterial gas embolism (abbreviated to AGE) occurs when there are gas bubbles in the blood within the arteries. The gas bubble can directly obstruct the flow of blood to a region fed to an artery, and may result in organ failure or death.

Unlike AGE, normal gas embolism involves the presence of gas bubbles in venous blood. The bubble is transported to the lungs, where it is blocked and re-enters the atmosphere without causing symptoms.

Efficacy of Alternative and Other Treatments According to GRADE* Ranking:

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT):

Recommendation: Strongly in favor (HBOT is effective in treating Arterial Gas Embolisms)

Grade of Evidence: High quality of evidence

* www.gradeworkinggroup.org

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