The effects of isothermic and hypothermic carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum on respiratory function test results

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of isothermic and hypothermic carbon dioxide, used for pneumoperitoneum during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, on respiratory function test results. Thirty patients who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were enrolled in this prospective randomized study. The patients were divided into two groups. Carbon dioxide at 37 degrees C (isothermic) was used in the isothermic group, and carbon dioxide at 21 degrees C (hypothermic) was used in the hypothermic group. Respiratory function tests were performed in the preoperative period and at 12 h after the operation. Mean forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume (FEV1), maximum peak expiratory flow (PEF), and the FEV1/FVC ratio were significantly higher in the isothermic group than in the hypothermic group (P < 0.05). Using isothermic carbon dioxide for pneumoperitoneum has fewer negative effects than hypothermic carbon dioxide on respiratory function tests results. Isothermic carbon dioxide may be preferable for patients with respiratory problems.