Why is CO2 used in laparoscopic surgery?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is utilized in laparoscopic surgery primarily to insufflate the abdominal cavity, which is essential for creating the space needed for surgeons to operate safely and effectively. By insufflating with CO2, the abdominal area expands, allowing for better visualization of the internal organs through minimally invasive instruments. This increased space reduces the risk of injury to surrounding tissues and improves maneuverability during the procedure.

Utilizing CO2 specifically has advantages, such as its low risk of toxicity, rapid absorption by the body, and rapid elimination through respiration, making it a suitable choice for creating a working space in the abdomen without causing significant physiological disturbances.

Other options, such as creating a pneumothorax, are not applicable because pneumothorax refers to air in the pleural space, which is not a goal or effect of laparoscopic surgery. Preventing infection is managed through sterile techniques and prophylactic antibiotics rather than through the use of CO2. Lastly, although CO2 can have some anesthetic properties when used in certain contexts, its primary purpose in laparoscopic surgeries is not to provide anesthetic effects but to facilitate the surgical procedure by creating adequate space for visualization and access to the organs.