Is deep neuromuscular blockade beneficial in laparoscopic surgery? Yes, probably

BACKGROUND: Deep neuromuscular blockade during laparoscopic surgery may provide some clinical benefit. We present the 'Pro-' argument in this paired position paper.

METHODS: We reviewed recent evidence from a basic database of references which we agreed on with the 'Con-' side, and present this in narrative form. We have shared our analysis and text with the authors of the 'Con-' side of these paired position papers during the preparation of the manuscripts.

RESULTS: There are a few low risk of bias studies indicating that use of deep neuromuscular blockade improve surgical conditions and improve patient outcomes such as post-operative pain in laparoscopic surgery.

CONCLUSION: Our interpretation of recent findings is that there is reason to believe that there may be some patient benefit of deep neuromuscular blockade in this context, and more detailed study is needed.