Postoperative venous air embolism after removal of neck drains.

Venous air embolism has been known to be a major hazard during diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical procedures. An acute massive venous air embolism can cause obstruction of the pulmonary outflow tract and subsequently result in cardiac standstill. Sudden cardiopulmonary instability occurred in a patient after removal of neck drains. Various methods of diagnosis and treatment can be used to manage this complication. An awareness of this potential complication and early diagnosis with prompt management are critical.