Effects of pneumoperitoneum on the amplitude of diaphragmatic excursion in pigs.

Objective: To study the effects that pneumoperitoneum achieved through carbon dioxide insufflation has on diaphragmatic excursion in pigs.

Methods: A total of 14 male Landrace pigs, 30 to 45 days of age and weighing five to seven kilograms each, were used. The sample was randomly and equally divided into two groups: one (n = 7) in which pneumoperitoneum was maintained at 10 mmHg for 60 minutes; and another (n = 7) in which pneumoperitoneum was maintained at 15 mmHg (also for 60 minutes).