Catecholamine release caused by carbon dioxide insufflation during laparoscopic surgery.

PURPOSE

We evaluated plasma catecholamine levels during pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopic surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine were evaluated in 29 patients who underwent laparoscopic retroperitoneal surgery in a half lateral decubitus position (group 1) or laparoscopic varicocelectomy in a Trendelenburg position (group 2).

RESULTS

The levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine increased significantly 5 minutes after carbon dioxide insufflation compared to levels after Veress needle insertion and just before insufflation. The elevation of catecholamine levels during laparoscopic procedures was greater in group 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that carbon dioxide insufflation may cause catecholamine release during laparoscopic surgery. Careful monitoring of hemodynamics is mandatory at the beginning of the procedure.