What is an air bubble lodged in an artery known as?

What is an air bubble lodged in an artery known as?

• A. Subcutaneous emphysema
• B. Pneumothorax
• C. Mediastinal emphysema
• D. Air embolism

Answer: (D)

An air bubble lodged in an artery is known as an air embolism. This condition occurs when air enters the vascular system and forms a bubble that can travel through the bloodstream. When an air embolism reaches the arteries, it can obstruct blood flow, potentially leading to serious and life-threatening complications such as stroke or organ damage. The presence of an air embolism can result from various activities, including scuba diving, where a diver ascends too quickly, allowing air to form bubbles that may enter the bloodstream. Recognizing an air embolism is crucial in emergency situations, as prompt medical treatment is necessary to minimize the risks associated with it. Subcutaneous emphysema refers to air trapped under the skin, usually as a result of trauma or certain medical procedures. Pneumothorax is the presence of air in the pleural cavity, causing lung collapse. Mediastinal emphysema involves air in the mediastinal space but does not pertain to air within the arteries. Thus, understanding these distinctions helps reinforce why air embolism is the correct term for the condition described.

An air bubble lodged in an artery is known as an air embolism. This condition occurs when air enters the vascular system and forms a bubble that can travel through the bloodstream. When an air embolism reaches the arteries, it can obstruct blood flow, potentially leading to serious and life-threatening complications such as stroke or organ damage.

The presence of an air embolism can result from various activities, including scuba diving, where a diver ascends too quickly, allowing air to form bubbles that may enter the bloodstream. Recognizing an air embolism is crucial in emergency situations, as prompt medical treatment is necessary to minimize the risks associated with it.

Subcutaneous emphysema refers to air trapped under the skin, usually as a result of trauma or certain medical procedures. Pneumothorax is the presence of air in the pleural cavity, causing lung collapse. Mediastinal emphysema involves air in the mediastinal space but does not pertain to air within the arteries. Thus, understanding these distinctions helps reinforce why air embolism is the correct term for the condition described.