OBJECTIVETo compare the cardiorespiratory factors and surgical conditions during total intravenous anesthesia for prolonged laparoscopic pelvic surgery with or without supplemental muscle relaxants.

METHODSForty female ASA I or II patients undergoing laparoscopic pelvic surgeries were randomized into two groups A and B, both with standardized anesthesia via a intravenous bolus injection of rocuronium (0.6 mg/kg). The patients in group B received continuous rocuronium infusion upon observation of one TOF twitch response with the T1 value maintained within 0-10% and rocuronium withdrawal at 20 to 30 min before the completion of the surgery. The patients in group A received no supplemental muscle relaxants. The cardiorespiratory parameters were measured during the operation. The respiratory system compliance (Ceff rs) was calculated as the quotient of the tidal volume (VT) and peak inspiratory pressure (PIP), and the operative conditions were graded by the operating gynecologist.

RESULTSThe cardiorespiratory parameters significant increased and Ceff rs decreased after pneumoperitoneum, but no significant differences were found between the two groups. The surgical conditions were also comparable between the two groups, but the duration of intubation and the operating time were significantly shorter in the group A.

CONCLUSIONPneumoperitoneum severely affects the cardiorespiratory parameters during laparoscopy, which can not be lessened by neuromuscular block agents. A single intubating dose of rocuronium can suffice the requirement of prolonged gynecologic laparoscopic surgery.