Conceptual and technical insights into the basis of neuromuscular monitoring

Abstract

Unrecognised postoperative residual neuromuscular block remains a frequent occurrence in recovery rooms. Evidence indicates that current practice continues to perpetuate the status quo, in which 10-40% of patients experience postoperative residual weakness. A departure from the current practice requires small efforts on the clinicians' part. This review addresses several selected core questions regarding neuromuscular blockade monitoring and provides a framework to rationally discuss and develop basic guidelines for the use of neuromuscular blocking agents in patient care.

Keywords: monitoring neuromuscular function; neuromuscular blocking drugs; tetanic stimulation; train-of-four (TOF); twitch height.

© 2017 The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland.