THE PHAGOCYTOSIS ACTIVITY DURING CONVENTIONAL AND LAPAROSCOPIC OPERATIONS IN THE RAT - A PRELIMINARY-STUDY

Background: Numerous experimental and clinical investigations indicate that the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) has a relevant function i n terms of physiological defense against tumor metastasis and bacteria l infection, Consequently, a point of major interest is the influence of surgical techniques on the MPS function. Method: The model investig ation examines the phagocytosis activity of the rat's MPS during conve ntional fundoplication (group 1, n = 10), laparoscopic fundoplication using a pneumoperitoneum (group 2, n = 10), and gasless laparoscopic f undoplication (group 3, n = 10). The MPS function is evaluated by an i ntravascular carbon clearance test (G. Biozzi). Results: The fastest c arbon elimination half-life was found in group 3. By way of contrast, there was a significant increase of carbon half-life in group 2 (p < 0 .005), Even group 1 caused less MPS depression (p < 0.1) than group 2. Conclusion: Gasless laparoscopic procedures have a favorable effect o n phagocytosis activity. The CO2 pneumoperitoneum seems to be the main reason for a decreased antigen elimination in laparoscopic treatments .