Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
pneumoperitoneum
Pronunciation: new-moh-pair-ih-toh-NEE-um
Presence of air or gas within the peritoneal cavity, either pathological or surgically induced.
Full Definition
The accumulation of gas within the peritoneal space, which may occur pathologically from bowel perforation or be therapeutically induced during laparoscopic surgery. In surgical contexts, carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum is deliberately created to provide visualization and working space during minimally invasive procedures. Pathological pneumoperitoneum typically indicates bowel perforation and constitutes a surgical emergency. Post-operative pneumoperitoneum may persist briefly and cause shoulder pain due to diaphragmatic irritation.
In Context
- "CO2 pneumoperitoneum was established at 15 mmHg for optimal visualization." — Operative report
- "Free air pneumoperitoneum on CT suggests bowel perforation requiring urgent surgery." — Emergency consultation
Also known as
peritoneal gas
Don't confuse with
pneumothorax
pneumobilia