Comparison of femoral and carotid blood pressure during laparoscopy in piglets

Abstract

PurposeThe impact of a capnoperitoneum on the known blood pressure (BP) difference of the upper and lower limb was studied in piglets. MethodsEleven German Landrace piglets (body weight, 4.3-7.4 kg; mean body weight, 6.2 kg) were studied. Arterial lines were placed in the right carotid and right femoral artery for pressure monitoring. Intraabdominal pressure levels were increased in steps of 6 mm Hg up to 24 mm Hg. ResultsWe found that elevated intraabdominal pressures up to 24 mm Hg did not change the preexisting systolic BP difference between the carotid and femoral arteries. Systolic femoral artery pressure constantly remained 5% higher than its carotid counterpart. In addition, mean and diastolic values were not affected. ConclusionsArterial BP measurements recorded at the legs of piglets when abdominal pressure is increased by up to 24 mm Hg can be used for intraoperative assessment of systemic arterial BP.