A Rare Intraoperative Complication: Venous Air Embolism During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy – A Case Report

Year 2025, Volume: 1 Issue: 2, 96 - 99, 01.09.2025

Elif Durmuş Sezer Kuzu Büşra Ari Mustafa Özgür Cırık , Münire Babayiğit , Hilal Sazak

Abstract

Background: Venous air embolism (VAE) is a rare but potentially fatal complication that may occur in laparoscopic procedures, particularly during the creation of pneumoperitoneum. Rapid diagnosis and intervention are essential for preventing severe outcomes.
Case Presentation: We report the case of a 24-year-old female patient who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Shortly after initiation of pneumoperitoneum, bradycardia, hypotension, hypoxemia, and a sudden decrease in end-tidal CO₂ developed. Immediate cessation of insufflation, placement of the patient in the Durant’s position, and central venous catheterization for air aspiration were performed. Approximately 20 cc of air was aspirated, leading to rapid hemodynamic stabilization.
Conclusion: Prompt identification and management, including discontinuation of insufflation, Durant’s positioning, and central venous aspiration, provided rapid hemodynamic stabilization. This case emphasizes the importance of intraoperative alertness and rapid interventions in the management of VAE.

Keywords

Venous air embolism , laparoscopy , anesthesia , insufflation , pneumoperitoneum

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