Complete recovery after near-fatal venous air embolism during cesarean section.
During replacement to the abdomen of the exteriorized uterus at cesarean section under epidural block, a previously healthy woman developed cardiorespiratory arrest. Tracheal intubation revealed low end-tidal carbon dioxide concentration suggesting embolization. Resuscitative efforts were successful. Uterine exteriorization - as well as the Trendelenburg position - significantly increase the risk of air embolization so that routine use of appropriate monitors is indicated to facilitate early diagnosis.
Epps
S N
SN
Department of Anesthesiology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, 111 East 210th Streeet, Bronx, NY 10467 USA.
Robbins
A J
AJ
Marx
G F
GF