Venous air embolism after accidental iliac vein injury during pelvic surgery

RMJ. 2012; 37(4): 442-444

Ki Hwa Lee, Eun Su Kang, Sang Yoon Jeon, Yong Han Kim, Jae Wook Jung, Si Ra Bang.

Abstract
Venous air embolism (VAE) can be a lethal complication of surgical procedures. Though classically associated with neurosurgery, VAE is also a potential complication of pelvic procedures. This paper concerns a case of a VAE that occurred during laparotomy in a 79-year-old-woman. The vital signs of the woman deteriorated abruptly when the iliac vessel was opened. The patient¡¯s ETCO2 and blood pressure fell to 7 mmHg and 76/35 mmHg, respectively and the cause was believed to be VAE. Therefore, it is essential for the practicing anesthesiologist to recognize and understand the management of VAE. Key words: Air embolism, laparotomy