The changes of ventilatory function during laparoscopy were proved both by spirometry and blood gas measurements. With 32 patients the spirometric data, the thoracic gas volume and the airway resistance showed no significant differences before and after the endoscopic exploration. During laparoscopy, however, a significant fall of the oxygen partial pressure was measured exceeding premedication dependent on hypoventilation. In addition, a restrictive component and a considerable rise of the venous admixture during endoscopy were determined. Formation of microatelectasis in the basal supradiaphragm lung areas, disturbed ventilation/perfusion-ratio and reduction of pulmonary and thoracic compliance were discussed to cause disturbance of ventilatory patterns.