Local anesthetics (LA) are well known for their antinociceptive and antiarrhythmic properties, but exert alternative effects, i.e. anti-inflammatory activity, as well. These immunomodulatory properties might contribute to the beneficial effects observed in the clinical setting, when intravenous lidocaine is given perioperatively. Systemic LA were shown to attenuate postoperative pain, accelerate the return of bowel function and shorten length of hospital stay in patients undergoing abdominal surgery.