[A case of air embolism during tubal insufflation].

Air embolism occurred immediately after tubal insufflation in a 40-yr-old female patient following abdominal total hysterectomy under general anesthesia. Abrupt decreases in Etco2, Spo2, and blood pressure were observed. Blood gas analysis revealed a marked difference between PaCO2 and EtCO2. The patient recovered soon and was extubated in the operating room. The post operative course was uneventful. Monitoring of EtCO2 was effective for early detection of air embolism.