Complications associated with the absorption of hysteroscopic fluid media.
OBJECTIVE
To review the literature concerning complications resulting from absorption of hysteroscopic fluid distension media and to describe methods to treat and prevent these complications.


METHODS
All pertinent literature on fluid distension media used for endoscopy, as well as relevant reports concerning the management of fluid and electrolyte imbalance, was reviewed.


RESULTS
The absorption of large volumes of electrolyte-free, low-viscosity fluid may result in volume overload with water intoxication. Volume overload may cause pulmonary edema, and water intoxication may lead to hyponatremia, hypo-osmolarity, and cerebral edema. In contrast, the absorption of dextran-70 may cause volume overload secondary to the oncotic effect of intravascular dextran. Dextran-70 has been associated with anaphylaxis and coagulation disorders.


METHODS
The use of diuretics is advocated. Urine output must be closely monitored. Judicious correction of electrolyte imbalance will prevent morbidity.


CONCLUSIONS
Meticulous attention to intraoperative fluid balance is imperative. A multichannel hysteroscope is necessary to keep intrauterine pressure low. Extensive surgical procedures may need to be performed in stages.


CONCLUSIONS
Severe volume overload and electrolyte imbalance may result from fluid absorption during operative hysteroscopy. Most complications may be avoided by closely monitoring fluid balance intraoperatively.
Witz
C A
CA
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio 78284-7836.
Silverberg
K M
KM
Burns
W N
WN
Schenken
R S
RS
Olive
D L
DL
D000042:Absorption; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000517:prevention & control; D001778:Blood Coagulation Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D001929:Brain Edema / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D003911:Dextrans / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004232:Diuretics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D005998:Glycine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D020702:Hysteroscopes; D015907:Hysteroscopy / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D008353:Mannitol; D011654:Pulmonary Edema / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D013012:Sorbitol; D007507:Therapeutic Irrigation / Q000009:adverse effects
D003911:Dextrans; D004232:Diuretics; D008353:Mannitol; D013012:Sorbitol; D005998:Glycine