Possible venous argon gas embolism complicating argon gas enhanced coagulation during liver surgery

Abstract

We report a case of a major venous argon embolism during argon beam coagulation of a liver biopsy. The essential signs were an abrupt reduction in end-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure, in SpO2 and in systolic arterial pressure, at the time of coagulation. Spontaneous recovery was observed within 10 min. Precautions in respect of usage are highlighted.