Is CO2 gas unsufflator necessary for laparoscopic training in animals?

RESUMO

Objective - To verify the efficacy and safety of compressed air to produce pneumoperitoneum for laparoscopic surgery in pigs for a training program of residence. Methods - Dalland pigs weighing 15-17kg underwent general anethesia and mechanical ventilation. They were divided in 3 groups A - (38) the pneumoperitnoneum was established with an automatic COZ insufflator, B - (7) as in A except the C02 gas was changed by compressed air, and C - (11) abdomen insufflation was obtained with compressed air directly from hospital pipe network system. Intra-abdominal pressure in all groups was kept between 12 and 15 mmHg. The laparoscopic procedures performed were distributed proportionally among groups 20 bilateral nephrectomy, 20 dismembered pyeloplasty and 16 partial nephrectomy. Arterial blood sampling for gasometry was obtained before and 2h after establishment of pneumoperitoneum in 5 pigs of group C. Results - The cost of 25 4,5kg COZ container used in group A was R$ 3,150.00 (U$ 1,050.00). The mean length time of surgeries in groups A, B and C were respectively 181±30rnin, 196±39min e 210±47min (p>0.05). Respiratory alkalosis occurred in 3 out of 5 pigs of group C. No animal exhibited signs of gas embolism or died during surgery. Conclusion - The use of compressed air for laparoscopy in pigs was safe, reduced costs and did not require the use of an automatic gas insufflator.