Vascular air embolism: A rare complication of nasal CPAP

Abstract

A preterm infant developed bilateral tension pneumothoraces and extensive vascular air embolism 6 h after being commenced on nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Neonatal clinicians should be aware that catastrophic vascular air embolism could occur in infants receiving nasal CPAP, a modality of respiratory support conventionally considered non-invasive and 'safe'.