조영증강 CT 촬영 후 발생한 공기 색전의 원인규명 및 감소방안 연구

A Study on Close Inquiries into Causes and Reduction Methods for Air Embolism Generated after contrast enhancement on CT

Purpose It has been reported that air embolism in the vein related to the infusion of contrast media has been observed up to 23% after contrast enhancement CT by the complications that have occurred occasionally. Most of them had a small amount of embolized air and no symptoms so that there were no needs for treatment. However, in case of large-amount air embolism, it could be fatal. In this regard, the researcher of this study attempted to manufacture imaging findings, pathophysiology of embolism, methods of reducing air infusion and connection tube during CT inspection with regards to the infusion of contrast media. Materials and Methods The researcher measured the frequency and size of air bubble incurred in the syringe and extension tube used when filling up contrast media in its infusion device utilized in the lab and compared the frequency and size of air bubble of an extension tube produced to those of two connection tubes produced. Results The occurrence of air bubble near the connecting parts was ineviTable when using two connection tubes to perform a multiple CT inspection during the infusion of contrast media; however, when manufacturing and using it with a connection tube, occurrence frequency of air bubble was noticeably on the decrease and its size became also smaller. Conclusion It was necessary to be careful so as for air bubbles to not appear in the connecting parts when combining and using more than two connection tubes during the CT inspection. However, when using more than two extension tubes to implement a multiple CT inspection, the researcher used an. extended connection tube, controlled the generation of air bubble and cut off air embolism.