Acute pulmonary oedema and hyperchloraemic metabolic acidosis following operative hysteroscopy using sodium chloride 0.9%

Abstract

Fluid media including sodium chloride 0.9% are used during operative hysteroscopy to provide uterine distension and aid visualisation. Volume overload is a known complication of their use but is usually associated with long procedures or uterine tissue dissection. A previously well 40-year-old woman presented for hysteroscopy and evacuation of retained products of conception under general anaesthesia. On emergence, she developed respiratory compromise and a hyperchloraemic metabolic acidosis in keeping with acute pulmonary oedema induced by sodium chloride 0.9% fluid overload. Anaesthetists must remain vigilant during operative procedures using distension media. Additionally, they should be familiar with the clinical and metabolic manifestations consistent with systemic transfusion of such media.