Physiologic effects of pneumoperitoneum.

Laparoscopy requires the establishment of pneumoperitoneum in order to provide adequate surgical exposure and maintain operative freedom. Insufflation of carbon dioxide into the peritoneal cavity, however, can affect several homeostatic systems, leading to alterations in acid-base balance, blood gases, and cardiovascular and pulmonary physiology. Although these changes may be well tolerated by healthy individuals, they may increase physiologic stress in patients with pre-existing conditions, placing them at increased risk for perioperative complications. An understanding of the physiologic changes caused by carboperitoneum is therefore essential for identification of high-risk patients and formulation of appropriate treatment plans, which may include preoperative cardiorespiratory optimization and perioperative monitoring. Under optimal conditions, debilitated patients should be able to tolerate pneumoperitoneum safely and, thereafter, reap the benefits associated with minimally invasive surgery.