Local anaesthetic (LA) agents, when applied in sufficient concentration at the site of action, prevent conduction of electrical impulses by the membranes of nerve and muscle12. In order to obtain a clear picture of the fundamental blocking mechanism, knowledge of the channel-binding kinetics of the drug is necessary. The application of LA agents to the intraperitoneal cavity has been investigated in several trials to decrease post operative pain and enhance recovery 13-18. Unfortunately there are few studies if any looking at the application of local anaesthesia in open procedures compared with laparoscopic gastrointestinal procedures. It is therefore an area where trials are needed.