Surgical conditions in experimental laparoscopy: effects of pressure, neuromuscular blockade, and pre-stretching on workspace volume.

BACKGROUND

Establishing a pneumoperitoneum for laparoscopy is common surgical practice, with the goal to create an optimal surgical workspace within the abdominal cavity while minimizing insufflation pressure. Individualized strategies, based on neuromuscular blockade (NMB), pre-stretching routines, and personalized intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) to enhance surgical conditions are strategies to improve surgical workspace. However, the specific impact of each factor remains uncertain. This study explores the effects and side-effects of modifying intra-abdominal volume (IAV) through moderate and complete NMB in a porcine laparoscopy model.

METHODS

Thirty female Landrace pigs were randomly assigned to groups with complete NMB, regular NMB and a control group. Varying IAP levels were applied, and IAV was measured using CT scans. The study evaluated the maximum attainable IAV (V), the pressure at which the cavity opens (p), and the ease of expansion (λ). Cardiorespiratory parameters, including peak inspiratory pressure (PIP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and cardiac output (CO), were continuously recorded to evaluate side-effects.

RESULTS

There were no significant weight differences between NMB groups (median 21.1 kg). Observed volumes ranged from 0 to 4.7 L, with a mean V of 3.82 L, mean p of 1.23 mmHg, and mean λ of 0.13 hPa. NMB depth did not significantly affect these parameters. HR was significantly increased in the complete NMB group, while PIP, MAP, and CO remained unaffected. Repeated insufflation positively impacted V; ease of opening; and expanding the cavity.

CONCLUSION

In this porcine model, the depth of NMB does not alter abdominal mechanics or increase the surgical workspace. Cardiorespiratory changes are more related to insufflation pressure and frequency rather than NMB depth. Future studies should compensate for the positive effect of repeated insufflation on abdominal mechanics and surgical conditions.