air embolism n obstruction of the circulation by air that has gained entrance to veins usu. through wounds compare AEROEMBOLISM
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an air lock that obstructs the outflow of blood from the right ventricle of the heart. Air may gain access to the circulation as a result of surgery, injury, or intravenous infusions. The patient experiences breathlessness and chest discomfort and develops acute heart failure. Tipping the patient head down, lying on the left side, may move the air lock.
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an embolism due to air bubbles entering the veins from trauma, surgical procedures, or severe decompression sickness. Called also aeroembolism.Medical dictionary. 2011.