Acute pulmonary edema complicating diagnostic laparoscopy preceded by thoracotomy

Area of Science:

• Cardiothoracic Surgery
• Gynecologic Surgery
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Pelvic endometriosis is a condition where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus.
• Recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax is a condition characterized by repeated lung collapse.
• Endometriosis can rarely affect the thoracic cavity, leading to catamenial pneumothorax.

Observation:

• A patient with pelvic endometriosis presented with recurrent spontaneous pneumothoraces.
• The patient underwent a combined thoracotomy and diagnostic laparoscopy.
• Following the procedure, the patient developed acute pulmonary edema.

Findings:

• This is the first reported case of a patient undergoing combined thoracotomy and diagnostic laparoscopy for pelvic endometriosis and recurrent pneumothoraces.
• The potential causes of acute pulmonary edema post-procedure are discussed.
• The combined surgical approach may present unique risks and complications.

Implications:

• This case highlights a rare but serious complication of combined thoracic and abdominal surgery for endometriosis.
• Further research is needed to understand the risks and optimal management of pulmonary edema in such cases.
• Clinicians should consider the potential for acute pulmonary edema when planning combined surgical interventions for endometriosis-related thoracic conditions.