[Pulmonary edema in transcervical endometrial ablation: a case report]

The use of the transcervical resectoscope for endometrial ablation and/or resection of myomas is a relatively new technique in gynecologic surgery. Although complications are uncommon with this procedure, they can occasionally appear and lead to potential hazard. Here a patient presenting for endometrial ablation is described; 1.5% glycine was used as the irrigation solution to enhance visibility and to wash away blood and tissue particles. Unfortunately, a large amount of glycine was absorbed by the open vessels in the myometrium during operation, leading to pulmonary edema and dilutional hyponatremia. After administration of diuretics, sodium supplement and 100% oxygen, complications improved progressively. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 5 without any sequelae.