A Verres needle is initially placed through the abdominal wall and CO2 gas infused so as to create a pneumoperitoneum (“gas filled” abdominal and pelvic cavity). This is a totally blind procedure since the surgeon cannot see through the abdominal wall until a trocar and laparoscope is appropriately placed. If there are abdominal adhesions (scar tissue) the intraabdominal organs can be adherent (stuck) to the inner abdominal wall and injury is possible during Verres needle placement. If the Verres needle is inserted too far then injury to intraabdominal organs or vessels is also possible.
There are a number of techniques that are used by surgeons to confirm the appropriate placement of the Verres needle within the abdomen. Only after the surgeon has confirmed proper placement, the insufflation tubing is connected to the Verres needle and CO2 gas is infused. When about 15 mm Hg or pressure is obtained in the abdomen, the Verres needle is generally removed and replaced with a trocar.
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