Successful resuscitation after suspected carbon dioxide embolism during laparoscopic ureteric reconstructive surgery

Carbon dioxide (CO2) embolism is a rare but potentially fatal complication of laparoscopic surgery. We report a case of presumed CO2 embolism in a 35-year-old female during laparoscopic ureteric reconstructive surgery. After 2 h of operating time, a sudden decrease in end-tidal carbon dioxide and deterioration of hemodynamic status followed by cardiac arrest with pulseless electrical activity suggested gas embolism. Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation and inotropic support resulted in successful outcome. Thus, early recognition of the complication and prompt treatment can avoid catastrophy.