Animal models of cerebral arterial gas embolism

Cerebral arterial gas embolism is a dreaded complication of diving and invasive medical procedures. Many different animal models have been used in research on cerebral arterial gas embolism. This review provides an overview of the most important characteristics of these animal models. The properties discussed are species, cerebrovascular anatomy, method of air embolization, amount of air, bubble size, outcome parameters, anesthesia, blood glucose, body temperature and blood pressure.

► We reviewed all published animal models of cerebral arterial gas embolism. ► Characteristics of the animal models vary widely. ► We describe the most important characteristics of the animal models.