Effects of Insufflation

Abstract

This chapter deals with the properties of insufflated gases and with the characteristics expected from ideal insufflated gases for endoscopic procedures. Information has been provided on gas delivery systems and the thermal effects caused as a result of insufflations into the body cavity. Recommendations on equipment settings with regard to flow and pressures of insufflated gases have been provided. Since pneumoperitoneum is not a static but a dynamic condition; effects of water content, stress/ immunological response, physiological changes and the cardiopulmonary effects resulting from insufflated gases have been outlined. Combustion of insufflated carbon dioxide could be associated with the formation of carboxyhemoglobin and conditions such as methemoglobulinemia. The process leading to these changes has been explained for a better understanding of these conditions. Elimination of carbon dioxide and shoulder pain after endoscopic procedures has been elaborated.