Effect of Deep BLock on Intraoperative Surgical Conditions

Plain-language summary

Rationale: A deep neuromuscular block is often associated with improved surgical conditions especially in laparoscopic surgery. However, a deep block comes at the expense of a variety of items that may conflict with the use of a deep surgical muscle blockade including a long recovery phase, the need for muscle reversal, postoperative ventilation, impaired postoperative breathing. With the introduction of Sugammadex there is now the possibility to reverse an even deep surgical block. This may overcome most if not all of the issues mentioned. Objective: To assess whether a deep neuromuscular block provides better surgical conditions than a moderately deep block as derived from a surgical rating score. Study design: Single center, double-blind randomized controlled trial. Study population: 24 ASA I-III patients scheduled for laparoscopic renal (n=12, GROUP 1) or prostatic surgery (n=12, GROUP 2). Intervention: In both GROUP 1 and GROUP 2, 6 six patients will receive neuromuscular blockade according to current practice (atracurium (bolus) plus mivacurium (cont. infusion)) aimed at a moderately deep neuromuscular block (1-2 twitches in the Train of Four (TOF) monitor). The other six will receive a bolus plus continuous infusion with rocuronium aimed at a deep neuromuscular block (1-2 twitches post tetanic count (PTC)). All surgical procedures will be performed by one surgeon. Main study parameters/endpoints: To study the surgical conditions in patients undergoing laparoscopic renal or prostate surgery during deep versus less deep neuromuscular block as assessed by the surgical rating score. Nature and extent of the burden and risks associated with participation, benefit and group relatedness: Compared to current practice there will be no additional risk.

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