Physiological Considerations in Laparoscopic Surgery in Urology

Abstract

Laparoscopic surgery is being taken up rapidly by urologists to perform a variety of operations in the extraperitoneal space. Our patient population tends to be older, and our procedures more complex and lengthy, than those being performed by gynecologists and general surgeons. The physiologic changes brought about by the Trendelenburg position and by abdominal insufflation with C0₂ are discussed in this work. It is recommended that urologic laparoscopic procedures be performed under general anesthesia with an endolradical tube and positive-pressure ventilation.