Air embolism in the agitated traumatic brain injury patient: an unusual complication

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Describes the case of a 38-year-old male with traumatic brain injury (TBI) resulting from a fall (initial Glasgow Coma Scale rating 12). A central venous catheter was placed to help manage associated chest and abdominal injuries. The agitated patient twisted off several hubs from the central venous catheter with his teeth, introducing an air embolus. After several days of ventilatory support, the patient successfully completed inpatient rehabilitation, attaining independence in ambulation and activities of daily living.

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