Laparoscopic pneumodissection: Results in initial 20 patients

Margaret S Pearle, S. Y. Nakada, E. M. McDougall, T. G. Monk, E. Pingleton, F. D. Roemer, R. V. Clayman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The efficiency of laparoscopic procedures has been hindered by a lack of instrumentation for blunt tissue dissection. We evaluated here the efficacy of a new 5-mm laparoscopic dissecting instrument, a pneumodissector. This instrument allows the surgeon to use short burst of high-pressure carbon dioxide to bluntly dissect fatty tissue. STUDY DESIGN. In 20 patients undergoing a variety of laparoscopic procedure, a 5-mm laparoscopic pneumodissector was used. Subjective assessment of the efficacy of the instrument was recorded. In addition, acid-base changes were measured by blood gas determination and serum chemistries were obtained before, during and after the procedure. RESULTS: The pneumodissector enhanced dissection of the kidney, ureter and major blood vessels and shortened the operative time for laparoscopic nephrectomy. Although statistically significant changes in acidbase values occurred with use of the pneumodissector, these changes were not clinically significant and were no different than what is normally seen during carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic pneumodissection is a safe and efficacious technique for rapid blunt tissue dissection.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)579-583
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons
Volume184
Issue number6
StatePublished - 1997

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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