insufflare

Insufflare is a Latin verb meaning to blow into or to inflate by introducing air or gas. The term has given rise to the English noun insufflation and the related verb insufflate, and it appears in various medical and anatomical contexts. Etymologically, it is formed from the prefix in- plus sufflare, describing the act of forcing air or gas into a space.

In medical contexts, insufflation refers to the deliberate introduction of gas into a body cavity as part of a procedure. The most common agent is carbon dioxide (CO2), chosen for its inertness, rapid solubility, and ease of control. Insufflation is performed with an insufflator, a device that regulates gas flow and pressure to maintain a safe operating space. In laparoscopic surgery, CO2 is insufflated to create pneumoperitoneum, typically targeting intraabdominal pressures around 12–15 mmHg in adults, with lower pressures used for children. Insufflation carries risks such as hypercarbia, acidosis, subcutaneous emphysema, gas embolism, and potential injury to organs or vessels if performed improperly.

Outside operative settings, insufflation is used to distend hollow organs during endoscopy and other diagnostic procedures, improving visibility and access. In colonoscopy, CO2 or air may be used to achieve distension, with CO2 favored for reduced patient discomfort in many modern practices.

See also: insufflation, insufflator, pneumoperitoneum, laparoscopy.