What happens when air gets in continuous bladder irrigation?

Air in the continuous bladder irrigation (CBI) system can lead to several complications, including:

1. Embolism: Air bubbles entering the blood vessels during CBI can cause an air embolism. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition where air blocks the blood flow in a vessel, leading to tissue damage and organ dysfunction.

2. Infection: Air in the CBI system can provide a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). The presence of air can disrupt the sterile environment of the bladder and allow bacteria to grow and multiply.

3. Bladder spasms: Air in the bladder can cause irritation and lead to bladder spasms. These spasms are involuntary muscle contractions of the bladder, causing discomfort and pain.

4. Urine leakage: Air in the CBI system may interfere with the proper functioning of the catheter, resulting in urine leakage. The presence of air bubbles can affect the seal between the catheter and the bladder, leading to uncontrolled leakage of urine.

5. Impaired drainage: Air in the CBI tubing can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to impaired drainage. The air bubbles can act as a barrier, preventing the efficient removal of urine from the bladder. This can result in urinary retention and discomfort.

6. False alarms: Air in the CBI system can trigger false alarms on medical devices or monitoring systems. The presence of air bubbles may interfere with the sensors or detectors used to measure urine output or other parameters, leading to inaccurate readings.

To prevent these complications, healthcare professionals take measures to minimize the risk of air entering the continuous bladder irrigation system. This includes using proper techniques for catheter insertion and maintenance, ensuring a closed system, and promptly removing air bubbles from the tubing when they are noticed.