Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication: The effects of high-concentration supplemental perioperative oxygen on the inflammatory and immune response: A randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: A number of studies have been reported on the effects of high-concentration oxygen (HCO) on cytokine synthesis, with controversial results. We assessed the effect of administration of perioperative HCO on systemic inflammatory and immune response in patients undergoing laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients (n = 117) were assigned randomly to an oxygen/air mixture with a fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2 ) of 30% (n = 58) or 80% (n = 59). Administration was commenced after induction of anaesthesia and maintained for 6 h after surgery. White blood cells, peripheral lymphocytes subpopulation, human leucocyte antigen-DR (HLA-DR), neutrophil elastase, interleukin (IL)-1 and IL-6 and C-reactive protein (CRP) were investigated.

RESULTS: A significantly higher concentration of neutrophil elastase, IL-1, IL-6 and CRP was detected post-operatively in the 30% FiO2 group patients in comparison with the 80% FiO2 group (P < 0.05). A statistically significant change in HLA-DR expression was recorded post-operatively at 24 h, as a reduction of this antigen expressed on monocyte surface in patients from 30% FiO2 group; no changes were noted in 80% FiO2 group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that perioperative HCO (80%), during LNF, can lead to a reduction in post-operative inflammatory response, and possibly, avoid post-operative immunosuppression.