Neuromuscular monitoring, residual blockade, and reversal: Time for re-evaluation of our clinical practice

摘要

Even with the advent of shorter-acting muscle relaxants, the risk of residual blockade continues to persist. Consequently, in daily practice, we are confronted with the following contradiction, namely, how best to combine muscular relaxation throughout the operative procedure without exposing patients to the risk of residual blockade at the end of the case. A Continuing Professional Development (CPD) module concerning residual blockade is published in this issue of the Journal.1 Why was it necessary to publish a CPD module on this topic when a number of related studies and surveys reports are already available? While many clinicians are convinced about the benefits of both neuromuscular monitoring and reversal in current practice, nevertheless, reality seems to differ. Anesthesiologists are well trained in the use of neuromuscular blocking agents.