Complications of robotic and laparoscopic urologic surgery relevant to anesthesia

Abstract

Technology keeps advancing in this era allowing surgery to become less invasive in many surgical sciences. Besides these technological advances, minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopy and robotic assisted laparoscopy are preferred widely around the globe by both surgeons and patients. Because of the increasing demand to laparoscopy and robotic surgery, anesthetists also should adapt to these specific surgical procedures. Carbon dioxide (CO 2) insufflation is applied in these procedures in order to provide working space and exposure to target organs. CO 2 insufflation (pneumoperitoneum if applied intrabdominally) and positional maneuvers such as steep Trendelenburg position is used in urologic laparoscopy and robotic surgery, which have vital effects on patient's physiology regarding cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, ocular and neurological systems. Special positions and unique surgical tools used in these procedures may hinder vital interventions such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation and open conversion. Comprehension of these pathophysiological effects and specific considerations is crucial to detect, to prevent and to manage serious complications that may occur during surgery.