Measurements of intraperitoneal pressure and the development of a feedback control valve for regulating pressure during flexible transgastric surgery (NOTES)

Abstract

High intraabdominal pressures during laparoscopy (greater than 15 mm Hg) are dangerous. Pressures developed during translumenal endosurgery when using flexible endoscopes without feed-back regulation are unknown. To measure and control intraabdominal pressures during transgastric endosurgery. In a blinded study, intraabdominal pressures during unregulated transgastric cholecystectomy and tubal ligation were measured by using Veress needles in 5 pigs (group 1). The accessory channel valve of a double-channel gastroscope was modified to allow measurement and control of intraabdominal pressures with a laparoscopic insufflator. This was tested prospectively in another blinded study in 5 pigs (group 2) that underwent identical procedures to those in group 1, with independent Veress needle pressure measurements. This ethically approved study was performed in an experimental surgical operating theater. Transgastric cholecystectomy (n=4) and tubal resection (n=6). Intraabdominal pressure measurements during transgastric endosurgery, with and without feed-back control. The mean (standard deviation) number of pressure measurements per procedure greater than 20 mm Hg was 11+/-1.41 in group 1 and 0+/-0 in group 2 (P<.05). Most episodes of high pressure were undetected by the endoscopist, who was blinded to the pressure measurements. Unacceptably high intraabdominal pressures were common during translumenal endosurgical procedures. Feedback pressure regulation through a modified valve prevented overinflation.