Elimination of Laparoscopic Lens Fogging Using Directional Flow of CO(2)

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Surgeons constantly struggle with the formation of condensation on the lens of a laparoscope, which prolongs procedures and reduces visibility of the abdominal cavity. The goal of this project was to build a device that would direct a flow of carbon dioxide (CO(2)) into an open chamber surrounding the lens of a laparoscope, acting to keep moisture away from the lens and eliminate condensation. METHODS: The device isolates the lens of the laparoscope from the humid environment of the intraperitoneal cavity by creating a microenvironment of dry CO(2). This was accomplished by building a communicating sleeve that created an open chamber around the distal 2 to 3 cm of the scope. Into this cavity, dry cool CO(2) was pumped in from an insufflator so that the path of the gas would surround the lens of the scope and escape through a single outlet location through which the scope views the intraperitoneal cavity. This chamber is proposed to isolate the lens with a high percentage of dry CO(2) and low humidity. The device was tested in 7 different adverse conditions that were meant to challenge the ability of the device to maintain the viewing field with no perceptible obstruction. RESULTS: In all of the conditions tested, 25 trials total, the device successfully prevented and/or eliminated laparoscopic lens fogging. CONCLUSIONS: The device designed for this project points to the potential of a simple and effective mechanical method for eliminating laparoscopic lens fogging.