The influence of different insufflation pressures during carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum on the development of pulmonary metastasis in a mouse model.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The effects of different insufflation pressures on the development of pulmonary metastasis was investigated in a mouse laparoscopy model. METHODS: BALB/C mice intravenously inoculated with colon 26 cells were randomized to one of five treatment groups (10 mice per group) pneumoperitoneum at different pressures of 5, 10 or 15 mmHg; full laparotomy for 60 min; or anesthesia control. Cancer nodules on the lung surface 19 days postoperatively were compared between groups. RESULTS: (a) As compared with the control group, pneumoperitoneum at 10 and 15 mmHg and laparotomy enhanced the growth of pulmonary metastases (p < 0.01). (b) The growth of metastases also was greater in laparotomy group mice than in mice undergoing pneumoperitoneum at 5 and 10 mmHg (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that the effects of different insufflation pressures on the growth of pulmonary metastases are not identical, and that pneumoperitoneum with high pressure may promote pulmonary metastases similar to those with laparotomy.