Arterial Gas Embolism (Air Embolism) By Richard E Moon, MD, Duke University Medical Center Reviewed / Revised Apr 2023 View Patient Education Symptoms and Signs Diagnosis Treatment Key Points More Information Topic Resources Comparison of Gas Embolism... Arterial gas embolism is a potentially catastrophic event that occurs when gas bubbles enter or form in the arterial vasculature and occlude blood flow, causing organ ischemia.