Pneumoperitoneum for neonatal laparoscopy: how safe is it?
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Updated: May 12, 2026

Laparoscopic Non-Mesh Cerclage Pectopexy for Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Published on: September 13, 2022
Melanie Olsen1, Nicole Avery, Sanjeev Khurana
1Department of Children's Anesthesia, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, SA, Australia. melanie.olsen@health.sa.gov.au
Abstract:
We present the case of a 3 day old term neonate who experienced a cardiopulmonary arrest during creation of pneumoperitoneum for laparoscopic repair of duodenal atresia. The arrest was thought likely to have occurred as a result of a gas embolism. We discuss the features of the neonatal circulation which may predispose neonates to embolic phenomena during laparoscopic procedures, and the potential benefit of priming the insufflation apparatus with carbon dioxide. The possibility of gas embolism should be considered when contemplating laparoscopic surgery in this patient group.

