Study designs of evaluations included in the review
Comparative studies were eligible for inclusion; further details on study design were not provided.
Specific interventions included in the review
Studies in which separate groups were given an intravenous bolus dose of rocuronium or vecuronium were eligible. Studies evaluating any other neuromuscular-blocking agents in addition to the two agents of interest were included if they also evaluated both these agents. The dose of rocuronium ranged from 300 to 1,200 microg/kg, while that of vecuronium ranged from 40 to 100 microg/kg.
Participants included in the review
Inclusion criteria were not defined in terms of the participants. The studies were conducted primarily adults, although studies with children and elderly patients were also included.
Outcomes assessed in the review
Studies in which the outcome of 'onset time' or 'time to onset of action' (T-max) for the two interventions was measured using electromyography, mechanomyography or acceleromyography at the adductor pollicis were eligible for inclusion. The definition of T-max as time to 90, 95 or 100% or maximum neuromuscular blockade, as defined by the included studies, was accepted. Studies in which a tourniquet was applied to one of the patient's arms were included if the outcome was assessed in the arm without any manipulation. Studies had to report means and standard deviations or errors to be included.
How were decisions on the relevance of primary studies made?
Three reviewers assessed studies for relevance. Any disagreements were resolved through consensus.