Welcome to All Sensors “Put the Pressure on Us” blog. This blog brings out pressure sensor aspects in a variety of applications inspired by headlines, consumer and industry requirements, market research, government activities, and you.
Pressure and Laparoscopic Surgery Part 2
The intravenous (IV) tube delivers saline and other chemicals to the patient before, during and after the laparoscopic surgery. Following the standard procedure, the IV bag is hung at least 3 feet above an adult patient’s heart to ensure there is sufficient pressure to keep the IV running at a constant rate. The height of three feet ensures a minimal pressure of 67.2 mmHg.
In addition to carbon dioxide (CO2) pressure, blood pressure measurements and other pressures are involved in laparoscopic surgery. Three examples include an intravenous (IV) tube, spirometer, and an intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) device.
A spirometer can be used to increase the patient’s post-surgery lung capacity. The process involves a graduated scale on a closed air cylinder, a movable piston, and a pointer. With an incentive spirometer, the patient inhales for as long as possible while holding the pointer within a specific range (constant negative pressure) to demonstrate lung capacity. Periodic usage helps patients to increase their post-surgery capability. Desired capacity can vary depending on age, height, and other factors but values around 2500 ml are not uncommon.


An intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) device applies a cycling pressure (figure shows three zones) to the leg after laparoscopic surgery to prevent a Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), including Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE). The device uses a cuff around each leg that are periodically and sequentially (from ankle towards the heart) filled with air and squeeze the patient’s legs. This process increases blood flow through the veins of the legs and helps prevent blood clots.
For other pressures involved in laparoscopic surgery see Pressure and Laparoscopic Surgery Part 1.
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