Features of respiratory support during laparoscopic correction of inguinal hernias in children.

The objectives were to study the changes in the mechanics of respiration in children undergoing surgery depending on the value of intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) during laparoscopic procedures, and to compare the effects of different mechanical ventilation modes - pressure controlled (PCV) and volume controlled (VCV) ventilation - on the mechanics of respiration considering carboxyperitoneum conditions (CP).

To study the changes in the mechanics of respiration in operated children depending on the value of intra-abdominal pressure during laparoscopic procedures.

Fifty-two children aged 1-12 years undergoing laparoscopic surgery on inguinal hernias were randomly allocated to receive mechanical ventilation using either VCV (n = 24) or PCV (n = 28) mode. Respiratory mechanics were measured before application of carboxyperitoneum (initial data) and after the gas had been pumped into the abdominal cavity, at the following intra-abdominal pressure values: 6 mm Hg, 8 mm Hg, 10 mm Hg, 12 mm Hg, 14 mm Hg.

Elevation of intra-abdominal pressure due to carboxyperitoneum conditions had a negative effect on the mechanics of respiration. Changes in the respiratory mechanics were restrictive in nature in both groups. The patients who were receiving pressure controlled ventilation showed a decrease in tidal volume, exhaled minute volume, and dynamic lung compliance, which affected the gas exchange at intra-abdominal pressure values ≥ 12 mm Hg. Patients who were receiving volume controlled ventilation showed an increase in peak inspiratory pressure and mean airway pressure and a decrease in dynamic lung compliance in response to higher intra-abdominal pressure. A significant increase of concentration of exhaled carbon dioxide (etCO2) was registered at IAP ≥ 12 mm Hg.

Application of carboxyperitoneum causes increased intra-abdominal pressure and restrictive disorders in respiratory mechanics. Intra-abdominal pressure readings within 8-12 mm Hg allow laparoscopic procedures to be performed without significant gas exchange disorders in children older than 1 year.