Rapid recognition and treatment of cerebral air embolism: the role of neuromonitoring

Cerebral air embolism is a rare but serious complication of cardiac operations. Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography is a sensitive monitor of gas bubble entry into the cerebral circulation. Here we describe a case of cerebral air embolism during a Fontan procedure and the role of transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, cerebral oximetry, and electroencephalography (EEG) in its recognition and management.