Carbon Dioxide Embolism During Laparoscopic Right Hepatectomy: A Case Report

Abstract

Complications of laparoscopic surgery include carbon dioxide (CO2) embolism, primarily caused by the entry of CO2 gas into blood vessels or solid organs. If significant clinical symptoms occur, timely intervention is crucial as it can be life-threatening. We report a case of CO2 embolism during laparoscopic right hepatectomy. The patient was a 37-year-old male with no history of liver or kidney dysfunction. During the procedure, there were two episodes of oxygen desaturation (SpO2), and the second episode was accompanied by a significant drop in blood pressure and an increase in heart rate. However, there was no sudden decrease in the end-tidal CO2 partial pressure (ETCO2). Simultaneously, a grinding murmur was auscultated in the precordial area, and foamy blood was aspirated from the right internal jugular vein catheter. This article describes a case of CO2 embolism during laparoscopic surgery and provides a summary of its causes, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment. It is hoped that this article will contribute to the timely recognition and management of such cases, thereby preventing any potential adverse outcomes for patients.