Pulmonary Venous Air Embolism in Hyaline Membrane Disease

Abstract

Two cases of pulmonary venous air embolism (PVAE) as a complication of mechanical ventilation during the course of hyaline membrane disease are presented. PVAE in these cases, as well as in those previously reported was associated with pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE). The pathophysiology of PIE and of pVAE is discussed. Radiographic recognition of PVAE depends upon visualizing gas within the vascular system and especially within hepatic veins. The value of postmortem radiographs in the detection of this entity is emphasized.