Noncardiogenic pulmonary edema and venous air embolus as complications of operative hysteroscopy.
A 37-year-old patient undergoing operative hysteroscopy developed noncardiogenic pulmonary edema after fluid absorption of 6 L of Ringer's lactate distension solution. No electrolyte or neurologic sequelae were associated with this fluid absorption. A subsequent 35-year-old patient having similar surgery in which a device was used to control intrauterine pressure and fluid absorption, developed a venous air embolus. The use of Ringer's lactate solution reduces the consequences associated with fluid absorption but it is not without risks. A device to limit intrauterine pressure and fluid absorption does not eliminate other risks.
Department of Anesthesia, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
Jerome J
JJ
Grove
Richard C
RC
Shinaman
David R
DR
Drover
D000042:Absorption; D000328:Adult; D004618:Embolism, Air / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015907:Hysteroscopy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D007260:Infusion Pumps; D007431:Intraoperative Complications; D007552:Isotonic Solutions / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D016343:Monitoring, Intraoperative; D011654:Pulmonary Edema / Q000209:etiology*; D000077325:Ringer's Lactate; D014680:Veins; D014882:Water-Electrolyte Balance
D007552:Isotonic Solutions; D000077325:Ringer's Lactate