Mitch Medical Healthcare

Summary

■ Neuromuscular complications from laparoscopic surgery are uncommon (Table 3) and probably no more likely to occur than in open surgery.

■ Most neuromuscular complications are not specific to laparoscopy, though certain aspects of laparoscopy such as positioning of the patient and operative time can place patients at risk.

■ Neuromuscular injuries range from abdominal wall neuralgia to potentially life-threatening rhabdomyolysis. Although uncommon, these injuries are often preventable.

■ Preoperative knowledge of risk factors and attention to patient positioning and operative technique can minimize their incidence.

■ In the case of rhabdomyolysis, early diagnosis and prompt treatment can minimize the gravity of the sequelae.