Noncardiogenic pulmonary edema and venous air embolus as complications of operative hysteroscopy.

A 37-year-old patient undergoing operative hysteroscopy developed noncardiogenic pulmonary edema after fluid absorption of 6 L of Ringer's lactate distension solution. No electrolyte or neurologic sequelae were associated with this fluid absorption. A subsequent 35-year-old patient having similar surgery in which a device was used to control intrauterine pressure and fluid absorption, developed a venous air embolus. The use of Ringer's lactate solution reduces the consequences associated with fluid absorption but it is not without risks. A device to limit intrauterine pressure and fluid absorption does not eliminate other risks.