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Updated: Jul 12, 2026

Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Published on: January 17, 2018
Pulmonary oedema following venous air embolism during transsphenoidal pituitary surgery
R Arora1, D Chablani, G P Rath
1Neurosciences Centre, Department of Neuroanaesthesiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Abstract:
Venous air embolism (VAE) is a well known complication in procedures where the operative field is above the level of the heart. Acute pulmonary oedema after a large air embolus occurring during neurosurgery is also a recognized phenomenon. However, pulmonary oedema following repeated episodes of VAE in sublabial transsphenoidal (SLTS) surgery for pituitary adenoma has never been reported. We describe a case of VAE in a 65 year old male undergoing SLTS surgery for pituitary adenoma. Following this, the patient had pulmonary oedema which resolved on supportive treatment. Pulmonary oedema as a result of VAE may go unrecognised intraoperatively but can lead to a significant postoperative morbidity. Early suspicion and recognition of VAE and institution of aggressive treatment will help to avoid fatal consequences.
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