Abstract
Ropivacaine is a new long-acting local anesthetic produced through modern technology to separate pure isomers. Although ropivacaine is supposed to have better differentiation in sensory/motor blockade, clinical studies do not necessarily support the differential effect. The relevant advantage of ropivacaine over racemic bupivacaine is reduced potential for systemic toxicity. Its better cardiotoxic profile is an especially important advantage when using techniques with a potential for high plasma concentrations.
