Automated control for investigation of the insufflation-ventilation interaction in experimental laparoscopy

In laparoscopic surgery the abdominal cavity is insufflated with pressurized carbon dioxide gas to create workspace. This pressure is exerted through the diaphragm onto the lungs, competing with ventilation and hampering it. In clinical practice the difficulty of optimizing this balance can lead to the application of harmfully high pressures....

Escape of surgical smoke particles, comparing conventional and valveless trocar systems

Background: During minimal access surgery, surgical smoke is produced which can potentially be inhaled by the surgical team, leading to several health risks. This smoke can escape from the abdominal cavity into the operating room due to trocar leakage. The trocars and insufflator that are used during surgery influence gas leakage. Therefore,...

Development of a simulator for training of fetoscopic myelomeningocele surgery

Objective: To develop a realistic simulation model for laparotomy-assisted fetoscopic spina bifida aperta (SBa) surgery, to be used for training purposes and preoperative planning. Methods: The predefined general requirement was a realistic model of an exteriorized uterus, allowing all neurosurgical steps of the intervention. The uterus was...

A novel method for monitoring abdominal compliance to optimize insufflation pressure during laparoscopy

Background: Abdominal compliance describes the ease of expansion of the abdominal cavity. Several studies highlighted the importance of monitoring abdominal compliance (C_ab) during the creation of laparoscopic workspace to individualize the insufflation pressure. The lack of validated clinical monitoring tools for abdominal...

Characterisation of trocar associated gas leaks during laparoscopic surgery

Background<br/>During laparoscopy, the abdominal cavity is insufflated with carbon dioxide (CO2) that could become contaminated with viruses and surgical smoke. Medical staff is potentially exposed when this gas leaks into the operating room through the instruments and past trocar valves. No detailed studies currently exist that have quantified...

Oscillation Mechanics of the body