We have presented a case of acute fulminating pulmonary oedema, not cardiogenic in origin, occurring at the end of anaesthesia. This precise diagnosis was made with the help of measurement of the capillary wedge pressure and cardiac output as well as analysis of the alevolar oedema fluid. The haemodynamic values and the gas exchange, as measured under various ventilatory patterns, confirms the usefulness of continuous positive pressure ventilation (CPPV). In the genesis of acute pulmonary oedema as described, the role of hypoxia and acute obstruction of the upper airways as presented by the patient is discussed in the light of the present proposed theories.