Cardiovascular changes during laparoscopy. Studies of stroke volume and cardiac output using impedance cardiography

The stroke volume and cardiac output changes in twenty-four patients undergoing laparoscopy were measured using the non-invasive technique of impedance cardiography. There was a moderate fall of stroke volume and cardiac output during intraperitoneal insufflation of carbon dioxide which was directly related to the volume of gas used. The need for caution during laparoscopy particularly in ill patients is emphasised.