*2.5.1 Air embolism*

It is a fatal complication, though rare should be identified early and treated accordingly [15].

Most vulnerable source of air entry into extracorporeal circuit includes pre-pump tubing segment. Other sites include glass bottles, air bubbles in dialysate, and uncuff dialysis catheters.

Clinical manifestation depends on position of patient and includes:


Immediate management includes: clamping the venous blood line, stopping the blood pump, placing the patient in Trendelenburg position, providing CPR if required, aspirating air from right ventricle and/or hyperbaric oxygen therapy as required.

Preventive measures include checking air detecting alarm system prior to initiating haemodialysis, flushing dialysis catheter prior to dialysis, and dialyzer rinsing before use.
