An insufflator pumps carbon dioxide into the peritoneal cavity (the abdomen) to provide an "optical space" which permits examination of the abdominal contents. Carbon dioxide is used to distend the abdomen as it is very soluble in blood and easily exhaled through the lungs. The presence of carbon dioxide distends the abdomen increasing the difficulty of spontaneous breathing, thus increasing the need for mechanical ventilation and close monitoring of the patient as compared to traditional surgeries.