Arterial gas embolisms are caused by the entry of gas into the pulmonary veins or directly into the arteries of the systemic circulation.

• Gas may enter arteries as a result of overexpansion of lungs by decompression barotraumas or result from paradoxical embolus.
• Emboli can travel to any artery, but the most serious consequences occur when they affect the cerebral or coronary circulation.
• Synonym(s): Gas embolism; Air embolism