Fig. 2. Variability in microvascular oxygen saturation in gastricmucosa (μHbO2) during graded elevation of intraabdominal pressure (IAP), and after release of increased IAP in anesthetized patients. Data are expressed as mean ± SD for n = 16 patients. Elevating IAP decreased the μHbO2pressure level dependently, whereas pressure release returned the μHbO2almost to baseline values. Baseline = baseline measurements; Control = measurements after desufflation, control period; IAP = 3 measurements during 8 mmHg IAP; IAP 12 = measurements during 12 mmHg IAP.