Air embolism during operative hysteroscopy: TEE-guided resuscitation

Abstract

During hysteroscopic surgery there are concerns about potential complications such as venous air and gas embolism. The incidence of subclinical air emboli events during operative hysteroscopy is significantly underestimated. The manifestations of this complication may range from an unnoticeable decrease in P(ET)CO(2) to the need for resuscitation. Three cases of air embolism with variable outcomes occurring during general anesthesia for operative hysteroscopy in otherwise healthy patients are presented.