Comparing different monitors for measuring neuromuscular blockade during surgery

Comparative Assessment of Neuromuscular Blockade Monitors

University of Washington · NCT05006807

This study is testing different devices to see which one best measures how well neuromuscular blocking drugs work during surgery.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 100 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Washington (other)
Locations1 site (Seattle, Washington)
Trial IDNCT05006807 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research evaluates various laboratory-built and commercially available sensors that measure the effects of neuromuscular blocking drugs on neuromuscular function during surgery. The study compares mechanomyography, considered the gold standard, with other monitoring techniques like acceleromyography and electromyography. By measuring the evoked thumb twitch response to ulnar nerve stimulation, the study aims to assess the accuracy and reliability of these devices. Key endpoints include the train-of-four count, train-of-four ratio, and post tetanic count.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are undergoing anesthesia that requires neuromuscular blocking drugs.

Not a fit: Patients who are under 18 years old or undergoing procedures that do not require neuromuscular blocking drugs may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve the accuracy of neuromuscular monitoring during surgeries, leading to better patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with similar monitoring approaches, but this specific comparison of devices is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. 18 years of age or greater
2. Undergoing anesthesia that requires neuromuscular blocking drugs

Exclusion criteria:

1. Less than 18 years of age
2. Undergoing anesthesia that does not require neuromuscular blocking drugs
3. Undergoing a procedure in which access to one or both arms is limited
4. Anatomical abnormalities of the hands or arms that preclude twitch monitoring with ulnar nerve stimulation and evoked thumb twitch response

Where this trial is running

Seattle, Washington

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Neuromuscular Blockade

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.