LAPAROSCOPIC PNEUMODISSECTION - INITIAL CLINICAL-EXPERIENCE

Objectives. We evaluated the efficacy of a new laparoscopic dissecting instrument that fires intermittent bursts of high-pressure carbon dio xide to separate tissue along natural planes. Methods. The pneumodisse ctor (PD) was used in 2 patients undergoing laparoscopic procedures. S erum creatinine and bicarbonate were measured before and after the pro cedure, and arterial blood gases were measured before, during, and aft er use of the PD. Subjective assessment of the ease of dissection with the PD by the first assistant was recorded. Results, Acidosis and hyp ercarbia were not observed with use of the PD. The PD facilitated diss ection along the iliac vessels, around the kidney, and in the renal hi lum. Conclusions, The PD is a feasible method for rapid, blunt dissect ion during laparoscopic procedures.