The modulation of immune responses by CO2, but not helium pneumoperitoneum, has a significant positive impact on survival during abdominal sepsis in a mouse model. Thus, application of a CO2 pneumoperitoneum may be beneficial in conditions with bacterial contamination of the abdominal cavity.

According to our results, a macroscopically inconspicuous appendix may be left in situ in patients undergoing laparoscopy for suspected appendicitis. However, this conclusion is based on a small number of patients and larger series are mandatory.

CO (2) directly modulates the immediate inflammatory response of pleural macrophages. Therefore, CO (2) insufflation during thoracoscopy could lower the local stress response, but does not appear to have a lasting effect.