Fatal gas embolism during ureteroscopic holmium: yttrium-aluminium-garnet laser lithotripsy under spinal anesthesia - a case report

Minim Invasive Ther Allied Technol. 2008;17(4):259-61. doi: 10.1080/13645700802274562.

Abstract

Ureteroscopic holmium: yttrium-aluminium-garnet (Ho:YAG) laser lithotripsy is an excellent treatment modality, especially for a large impacted ureteral stone. The treatment is efficient and safe. It helps surgeons to carry out a minimally invasive lithotripsy instead of an open surgery in patients with ureteral calculi. Here, we present the first report of a fatal gas embolism that occurred during ureteroscopic Ho:YAG laser lithotripsy under spinal anesthesia. When this complication occurs, the correct crisis resolution protocols, such as prevention of further air entry, reduction in the volume of air entrained, well-hydration, and rapid initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation with administering inotropic drugs, are highly effective in the critical period.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anesthesia, Spinal
  • Embolism, Air / etiology*
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lasers, Solid-State / adverse effects
  • Lithotripsy, Laser / adverse effects*
  • Lithotripsy, Laser / methods
  • Ureteral Calculi / therapy
  • Ureteroscopy / adverse effects*