For conducting arthroscopy, combination analgesia with magnesium sulphate plus bupivacaine offers better alleviation of pain when compared to bupivacaine alone.

A study was conducted to determine efficacy of magnesium sulphate + bupivacaine for arthroscopy.

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, databases like Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, EBSCO, and Web of science were explored for the relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that determined the effect of magnesium sulphate + bupivacaine vs bupivacaine for arthroscopy.

A random-effect model was used for carrying out this meta-analysis. Pain scores and duration of analgesia were the primary endpoints while analgesic consumption, first time to analgesic need, and nausea and vomiting were the secondary endpoints. 

Overall, 6 RCTs were incorporated. In comparison with bupivacaine alone, magnesium sulphate in combination with bupivacaine was linked with considerably extended duration of analgesia (standard mean difference [SMD] = 0.93) and first time to analgesic need (SMD=196.57), decreased pain scores (SMD=-1.71) and minimized analgesic consumption (SMD=-1.04). However, no significant influence was noted on nausea or vomiting (OR=1.54).

Magnesium sulphate in combination with bupivacaine can substantially enhance the pain-relieving effectiveness for arthroscopy.