Monitoring techniques: neuromuscular blockade and depth of anaesthesia

Monitoring has always played a pivotal role in anaesthesia. It reduces the risks of incidents or accidents by giving us early warning signs prior to their occurrence. Neuromuscular and depth of anaesthesia monitoring, once considered advanced monitoring techniques are now essential elements of our anaesthetic practice. This article de-scribes peripheral nerve stimulators and the importance of different patterns of stimulation to quantify the degree of neuromuscular blockade. The article will also focus on electroencephalogram analysis and stimulated evoked potentials for assessment of depth of anaes-thesia. The physical principles of these methodologies and their role and limitations within the clinical context will be discussed including the current clinical guidance and recommendations for neuromuscular blockade and depth of anaesthesia assessment.

Automated summary

Monitoring plays a crucial role in anesthesia, offering early warning signs and reducing the risks of incidents. Techniques like neuromuscular and depth of anesthesia monitoring have become essential in anesthesia practice. This article focuses on peripheral nerve stimulators to assess neuromuscular blockade, as well as electroencephalogram analysis and stimulated evoked potentials for depth of anesthesia assessment. It discusses the physical principles, limitations, and current clinical guidance in these methodologies.