Heart arrest caused by CO2 embolism during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Benítez Pacheco, O.R.; Serra, E.; Jara, L.; Buzzi, J.C.
Revista Espanola de Anestesiologia y Reanimacion 50(6): 295-298
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0034-9356 PMID: 12940219 Document Number: 556743
A 41-year-old woman developed a gas embolism while inserting a Veress needle to achieve pneumoperitoneum for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The embolism led to asystole, which was corrected after advanced cardiopulmonary resuscitation maneuvers, and was followed by sequelae and a prolonged hospital stay. The anesthesiologist should be vigilant during laparoscopic surgery and be ready and able to act in case of major complications.