Influence of Nociception Level Monitor (NOL) Guided Analgesic Delivery on Robot-assisted Colorectal Surgery

NOL technology uses a multiparameter-based sensor platform, and advanced algorithm, to continuously monitor Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) functions. NOL reflects a patient's nociceptive state and analgesic effect, helping to optimize the administration of systemic and/or regional analgesics, and avoiding overdose or underuse of these drugs. The nociception level is a multiparameter monitor that combines information from the finger photoplethysmogram amplitude, skin conductance, skin conductance fluctuation, heart rate, heart rate variability, and their time derivatives into one index ranging from 0 (absence of noxious stimulation) to 100 (severe noxious stimulation).

Hemodynamic changes outside of the normal range i.e., hypertension (systolic blood pressure greater than 140 mm Hg), tachycardia (heart rate greater than 90 min-1) and hypotension (mean arterial pressure less than 60 mm Hg) will be first assessed using the guidance of Bispectral index and Train of four monitors. Sufentanil in doses of 2.5 to 5 mcg (maximum of 0.6-1.2 mic/kg for the entire surgery) is administered if the Bispectral index and Train of four monitor values are within normal range and if required vasopressor infusion is used. Vasoconstrictors may be given as a continuous infusion of norepinephrine, or bolus doses of ephedrine or phenylephrine. Only when blood pressure remains, low additional crystalloids will be given. Finally, in case of bradycardia (heart rate less than 30 min-1), atropine may be given