A multifaceted individualized pneumoperitoneum strategy for laparoscopic colorectal surgery: a multicenter observational feasibility study

Surg Endosc. 2019 Jan;33(1):252-260. doi: 10.1007/s00464-018-6305-y. Epub 2018 Jun 27.

Abstract

Background: While guidelines for laparoscopic abdominal surgery advise using the lowest possible intra-abdominal pressure, commonly a standard pressure is used. We evaluated the feasibility of a predefined multifaceted individualized pneumoperitoneum strategy aiming at the lowest possible intra-abdominal pressure during laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

Methods: Multicenter prospective study in patients scheduled for laparoscopic colorectal surgery. The strategy consisted of ventilation with low tidal volume, a modified lithotomy position, deep neuromuscular blockade, pre-stretching of the abdominal wall, and individualized intra-abdominal pressure titration; the effect was blindly evaluated by the surgeon. The primary endpoint was the proportion of surgical procedures completed at each individualized intra-abdominal pressure level. Secondary endpoints were the respiratory system driving pressure, and the estimated volume of insufflated CO2 gas needed to perform the surgical procedure.

Results: Ninety-two patients were enrolled in the study. Fourteen cases were converted to open surgery for reasons not related to the strategy. The intervention was feasible in all patients and well-accepted by all surgeons. In 61 out of 78 patients (78%), surgery was performed and completed at the lowest possible IAP, 8 mmHg. In 17 patients, IAP was raised up to 12 mmHg. The relationship between IAP and driving pressure was almost linear. The mean estimated intra-abdominal CO2 volume at which surgery was performed was 3.2 L.

Conclusion: A multifaceted individualized pneumoperitoneum strategy during laparoscopic colorectal surgery was feasible and resulted in an adequate working space in most patients at lower intra-abdominal pressure and lower respiratory driving pressure. ClinicalTrials.gov (Trial Identifier: NCT03000465).

Keywords: Colorectal surgery; Laparoscopy; Neuromuscular blockade.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study
  • Observational Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Cavity / physiopathology
  • Colectomy / methods*
  • Colonic Diseases / surgery*
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Laparoscopy / methods*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pneumoperitoneum, Artificial / methods*
  • Pressure
  • Prospective Studies

Associated data

  • ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT03000465