Hemodynamic Consequences of High- and Low-pressure Capnoperitoneum During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Background: Peritoneal insufflation to 15 mmHg diminishes venous return and reduces cardiac output. Such changes may be dangerous in patients with a poor cardiac reserve. The aim of this study was to investigate the hemodynamic effects of high (15 mmHg) and low (7 mmHg) intraabdominal pressure during laparoscopic cholestectomy (LC) METHODS: Twenty patients were randomized to either high- or low-pressure capnoperitoneum. Anesthesia was standardized, and the end-tidal CO2 was maintained at 4.5 kPa. Arterial blood pressure was measured invasively. Heart rate, stroke volume, and cardiac output were measured by transesophageal doppler.

Results: There were 10 patients in each group. In the high-pressure group, heart rate (HR) and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) increased during insufflation. Stroke volume (SV) and cardiac output were depressed by a maximum of 26% and 28% (SV 0.1 > p > 0.05, cardiac output p > 0. 1). In the low-pressure group, insufflation produced a rise in MABP and a peak rise in both stroke volume and cardiac output of 10% and 28%, respectively (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Low-pressure pneumoperitoneum is feasible for LC and minimizes the adverse hemodynamic effects of peritoneal insufflation.