An abnormal capnography trace due to air embolism in the lateral position

Abstract

Venous air embolism occurs when air is entrained into the venous system and travels to the right heart and pulmonary circulation, and commonly occurs as a complication in laparoscopic, neurosurgical and cardiac surgeries. We present a case of abnormal end-tidal carbon dioxide capnography tracing in the lateral position in a laparoscopic major liver procedure and discuss the potential novel use of this as a red flag in aiding the medical practitioner to diagnose air embolism.