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Administration of succinylcholine to patients with a variant in the butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) gene increases the risk of anesthesia emergence prior to recovery from neuromuscular blockade (NMB). Application of quantitative neuromuscular monitoring (NMM) can identify residual NMB. We present two patients with abnormal BChE gene variants. In the first case, quantitative monitoring was applied too late to prevent awareness, but allowed diagnosis and prevented admission to the intensive care unit. In the second case, monitoring was applied prior to NMB, which enabled early diagnosis and prevented premature awakening from anesthesia. These cases illustrate the importance of quantitative NMM, even in short cases and with short-acting depolarizing agents such as succinylcholine. The clinical implications of this report include a more consistent use of NMM to identify and manage patients with undiagnosed abnormal BChE and to prevent premature anesthesia emergence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pediatric difficult airway management is more challenging for an anesthesiologist due to anatomical and physiological differences as compared to adults. Moreover, the familiarity with the use of difficult airway equipment in adults does not equate to proficiency for the same in children. So, here we are presenting the management of a unique case of a difficult airway due to postburn neck contracture in a 4-year-old child, which was managed successfully with the help of a video laryngoscope after the failure attempt with a flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION The goal of rapid sequence intubation is to secure the patients airway smoothly and quickly, minimizing the chances of regurgitation and aspiration of gastric contents. Traditionally succinylcholine chloride has been the neuromuscular blocking drug of choice for use in rapid sequence intubation because of its rapid onset of action and profound relaxation. Succinylcholine chloride remains unsurpassed in providing ideal intubating conditions. However the use of succinylcholine chloride is associated with many side effects like muscle pain, bradycardia, hyperkalaemia and rise in intragastric and intraocular pressure. Rocuronium bromide is the only drug currently available which has the rapidity of onset of action like succinylcholine chloride. Hence the present study was undertaken to compare rocuronium bromide with succinylcholine chloride for use during rapid sequence intubation in adult patients METHODOLOGY The study population consisted of 90 patients aged between 18-60 years posted for various elective surgeries requiring general anaesthesia at Sri Venkateswara Medical College, Tirupati study population was randomly divided into 2 groups with 30 patients in each sub group. 1. Group I: Intubated with succinylcholine chloride 1 mg kg-1 (n = 30) 2. Group II: Intubated with rocuronium bromide 0.9 mg kg-1 (n = 30) Intubating conditions were assessed at 60 seconds based on the scale adopted by Toni Magorian et al. 1993. The haemodynamic parameters in the present study were compared using p-value obtained from student t-test. RESULTS It was noted that succinylcholine chloride 1 mg kg-1 body weight produced excellent intubating conditions in all patients. Rocuronium bromide 0.9 mg kg-1 body weight produced excellent intubating conditions in 96.67% of patients, which was comparable to that of succinylcholine chloride. INTERPETATION AND CONCLUSION Thus, from the present study, it is clear that succinylcholine chloride is the drug of choice for rapid sequence intubation. Rocuronium bromide is a safe alternative to succinylcholine chloride in conditions where succinylcholine chloride is contraindicated and in whom there no anticipated difficult airway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rocuronium bromide is a new amino steroidal neuromuscular blocking agent which is structurally related to vecuronium and its onset time and intubating conditions are comparable with succinylcholine and without the undesirable side effects. Aims and Objectives: This study was planned to evaluate the ideal intubating dose of rocuronium bromide by comparing intubating conditions achieved by its different doses of rocuronium bromide and to consider rocuronium as an ideal intubating muscle relaxing agent, in place of succinylcholine chloride for elective long surgeries. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 120 patients who fulfilled the eligibility criteria. These patients were randomized into four groups of 30 each by block randomization technique. Each group received rocuronium bromide 0.6 mg/kg, 0.9 mg/kg, 1.2 mg/kg, and succinylcholine chloride 1 mg/kg, respectively. Results: Out of all the three doses of rocuronium bromide 0.9 mg/kg produced a similar intubating condition as succinylcholine chloride in the dose of 1 mg/kg without undue prolongation of the neuromuscular blockade. Conclusion: Rocuronium bromide can be used as an alternative to succinylcholine as an ideal intubating muscle relaxing agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the most important preconditions for any anesthetic operation is perioperative hemodynamic stability during laryngoscopy and intubation, which has been the subject of extensive research and documentation. Numerous approaches have been proposed to protect the patient from the sympathetic reaction, intraocular pressure (IOP) response, and catecholamine response during laryngoscopy and intubation. Aims and Objectives: To study the efficacy of two doses of intravenous dexmedetomidine premedication given as a single bolus dose over 10 min, 0.4 µg/kg and 0.6 µg/kg, 10 min before induction in preventing the rise of intraocular pressure following succinylcholine administration and endotracheal intubation. Materials and Methods: A retrospective randomized study was conducted. Ethical committee permission and signed informed consent were obtained from 60 eligible patients before the trial began. Results: Premedication with either 0.4 mcg/kg I.V. or 0.6 mcg/kg I.V. of dexmedetomidine diluted in normal saline at a 2 mcg/mL concentration administered over 10 min before induction resulted in significant obtundation of the rise in IOP associated with succinylcholine administration and intubation. Sympathetic response to laryngoscopy and intubation was also significantly diminished. The dose of 0.4 mcg/kg I.V. produced the best hemodynamic stability. Conclusion: Therefore, from the above research it can be concluded that, before succinylcholine delivery and intubation, dexmedetomidine 0.4 mcg/kg I.V. can be used as a premedication in situations where an increase in IOP could be hazardous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: When used in cases with penetrating eye injuries, succinylcholine can lead to the disastrous complication of vision loss by increasing intraocular pressure and increasing the risk of globe rupture. The goal of this research was to determine if pre-treatment with intravenous dexmedetomidine could mitigate the effects of succinylcholine and intubation on intraocular pressure. Methods: The study was prospective and randomized. After discussing the technique in detail, the study was done on 50 eligible patients with the agreement of an ethical committee and the patients' signed informed consent. Research for this study was carried out at Lifecare Hospital, Baniyas, Abu Dhabi between January 2016 to December 2017. Results: The intraocular pressure of the study group decreased after receiving premedication. After succinylcholine and intubation, IOP rose in all three groups, but in the study groups, it never went beyond pre-treatment levels. The sympathetic response to laryngoscopy and intubation was successfully suppressed at both doses of dexmedetomidine, but hemodynamic stability was better at 0.4 mcg/kg than at 0.6mcg/kg. Conclusion: When it comes to preventing an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) and dampening the sympathetic response, both dosages of dexmedetomidine i.e. 0.4 mcg/kg and 0.6 mcg/kg are equally effective. Nevertheless, the dose of 0.4 mcg/kg is associated with greater hemodynamic stability. Hence, preventing an increase in intraocular pressure with dexmedetomidine 0.4 mcg/kg may be useful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RATIONALE: Controversies and practice variations exist related to the pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic management of the airway during rapid sequence intubation (RSI). OBJECTIVES: To develop evidence-based recommendations on pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic topics related to RSI. DESIGN: A guideline panel of 20 Society of Critical Care Medicine members with experience with RSI and emergency airway management met virtually at least monthly from the panel's inception in 2018 through 2020 and face-to-face at the 2020 Critical Care Congress. The guideline panel included pharmacists, physicians, a nurse practitioner, and a respiratory therapist with experience in emergency medicine, critical care medicine, anesthesiology, and prehospital medicine; consultation with a methodologist and librarian was available. A formal conflict of interest policy was followed and enforced throughout the guidelines-development process. METHODS: Panelists created Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome (PICO) questions and voted to select the most clinically relevant questions for inclusion in the guideline. Each question was assigned to a pair of panelists, who refined the PICO wording and reviewed the best available evidence using predetermined search terms. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) framework was used throughout and recommendations of "strong" or "conditional" were made for each PICO question based on quality of evidence and panel consensus. Recommendations were provided when evidence was actionable; suggestions, when evidence was equivocal; and best practice statements, when the benefits of the intervention outweighed the risks, but direct evidence to support the intervention did not exist. RESULTS: From the original 35 proposed PICO questions, 10 were selected. The RSI guideline panel issued one recommendation (strong, low-quality evidence), seven suggestions (all conditional recommendations with moderate-, low-, or very low-quality evidence), and two best practice statements. The panel made two suggestions for a single PICO question and did not make any suggestions for one PICO question due to lack of evidence. CONCLUSIONS: Using GRADE principles, the interdisciplinary panel found substantial agreement with respect to the evidence supporting recommendations for RSI. The panel also identified literature gaps that might be addressed by future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pyloric distensibility has been reported as a predictive measure in gastroparesis. Measures can be obtained either during endoscopy under anesthesia or in unsedated patients. However, the impact of anesthetic drugs on the results of pyloric characteristics remains unknown. The objective of the present study was to determine the impact of anesthetics on pyloric characteristics measured using EndoFLIP® in patients with gastroparesis. Methods: Consecutive patients with gastroparesis from three French tertiary centers were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with a previous history of pyloric intervention were not considered for analysis. Medical records were reviewed for the potential use of anesthetic drugs during EndoFLIP® measurement. Key Results: One hundred twenty‐five patients were included in the present study [median age: 55.0 years (43.0–66.0)]. Thirty‐four patients (27.2%) had pyloric assessment without general anesthesia and 91 patients (72.8%) with general anesthesia. Pyloric pressure at 40 mL of distension was higher in patients with general anesthesia in comparison with patients without general anesthesia [18.7 (13.0–25.6) mmHg vs. 15.4 (11.9–20.7) mmHg; p = 0.044)]. In multivariate analysis, suxamethonium chloride administration was associated with decreased pyloric distensibility (OR: 3.9; 95% CI: 1.3–11.4; p = 0.013) while ephedrine was rather associated with increased pyloric distensibility (OR: 0.3; 95% CI: 0.1–0.9; p = 0.036). Conclusions and Inferences: This study is the first to have found an impact of general anesthesia on pyloric measurement using the EndoFLIP®. Therefore, further studies are needed to confirm these findings, if possible, prospective studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Agitation immediately after EA operation is one of the common problems during recovery, especially in children. In general, agitation is defined as a set of physical symptoms or emotional distress that includes the following symptoms alone or together: crying, restlessness, clutching, demonstrations, verbal kicking, and purposeful or purposeless behaviors that may have a logical connection. Method: In this study, 60 patients in the age range of 20 to 50 years who were in ASA I and II categories were subjected to tracheal intubation in two groups by rapid sequence induction method. The first group received 3 μg/kg of fentanyl and 0.5 mg/kg of lidocaine for premedication and were given induction with 1 mg/kg of succinylcholine and 5 mg/kg of nesdonal. The second group received 3 μg/kg of fentanyl and 0.5 mg/kg of lidocaine for premedication and were given induction with 0.6 mg/kg of rocuronium and 5 mg/kg of nesdonal. After surgery, the incidence, intensity and duration of agitation when the patient woke up in both groups was recorded by a physician based on Riker's criteria. Also, the occurrence of myalgia and its persistence from one to 24 hours after the operation were assessed. Results: According to the results of this clinical trial, succinylcholine and rocuronium were not significantly different from each other in terms of the occurrence of agitation, its intensity and duration, but based on the results of the odds ratio, the probability that in patients who took rocuronium they found that agitation is 0.6 times less than the patients who received succinylcholine. Logistic analysis of the data also showed that in patients who received succinylcholine, the probability of agitation being more severe is 2.47 times higher than in patients who received rocuronium. The duration of agitation in patients receiving succinylcholine was also higher than in patients receiving rocuronium. In terms of the incidence and severity of myalgia, there was no significant difference in the people who received rocuronium or succinylcholine, however, a total of 50% of the patients showed agitation symptoms, showed myalgia, of which 16.6% were related to the people who received rocuronium and 33.3% were related to patients who received succinylcholine. The results of the myalgia odds ratio also showed that the probability of myalgia symptoms being observed in patients who received rocuronium is 0.5 times lower than in patients who received succinylcholine. Conclusion: In aggregate, the results of this trial showed that rocuronium can be a suitable alternative to succinylcholine in applications outside the operating room. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safe anesthesiological care of patients with neuromuscular diseases poses a particular challenge for anesthetists. Only a small group of muscle diseases and syndromes are associated with an increased risk of malignant hyperthermia and therefore require trigger-free anesthetic procedures avoiding volatile anesthetics and succinylcholine. These diseases are frequently associated with mutations in the RYR1, CACNA1S or STAC-3 genes. In other neuromuscular diseases, anesthetic-induced rhabdomyolysis can occur. Therefore, volatile anesthetics should be avoided in these patients in addition to the contraindication for succinylcholine. In other neuromuscular diseases the risk of a propofol infusion syndrome or myotonic crises can be elevated or the duration of the effect of non-depolarizing muscle relaxants can be changed in an incalculable way. In every case an individual anesthetic aproach including the avoidance of potential pharmacological or non-pharmacological triggers is essential for the safety of the patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Succinylcholine is a muscle relaxant of choice for paediatric intubation due to its fast onset and ultrashort duration of action but it is associated with unwanted sideeffects. Rocuronium bromide can be used alternatively to avoid those unwanted side-effects because of its fast onset and intermediate duration of action. Aim: To compare two doses of rocuronium bromide with succinylcholine in terms of intubating conditions, duration of action, haemodynamic variations, and complications to get a better alternative dose of rocuronium bromide in children undergoing elective surgeries. Materials and Methods: The present randomised, doubleblinded clinical trial study was conducted in the Department of Anaesthesiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College (JNMC), Sawangi, Wardha, Maharashtra, India from January 2021 to October 2022. Ninety American Society of Anaesthesiology (ASA) Grade-I-II children of both sexes of 1-10 years age, undergoing elective surgery were equally divided into three groups. Group-R9 (n=30) and Group-R12 (n=30) received rocuronium bromide 0.9 mg/kg and 1.2 mg/kg, respectively while Group-S (n=30) received succinylcholine 1.5 mg/kg. Comparative evaluation of intubating conditions was done around 60 seconds in all three groups and duration of action, haemodynamic variations, and complications were noted. All data were entered in a microsoft excel sheet and results were expressed as percentages, mean Standard Deviation (SD), chi-square test, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test where the difference was considered statistically significant if the p-value <0.05 by using the software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 11.0 (SPSS version 11.0). Results: Rocuronium bromide 1.2 mg/kg and succinylcholine 1.5 mg/kg provided excellent intubating conditions in 96.7% children and good intubating conditions in 3.3% children in both groups while rocuronium bromide 0.9 mg/kg provided excellent intubation conditions in 83.3% of children and good intubating conditions in 16.7% of children There was a significant difference present in intubation scores between three groups (p=0.01). The duration of action was longer with rocuronium bromide 1.2 mg/kg (38.93±4.323 min) as compared to rocuronium bromide 0.9 mg/kg (26.07±2.791 min) while it was shortest with succinylcholine 1.5 mg/kg (6.00±1.74 min). Adverse effects like fasciculations were only found in children (n=30) receiving succinylcholine (p=0.01) but not in rocuronium bromide groups. Conclusion: Rocuronium bromide 1.2 mg/kg gives the same intubating conditions as succinylcholine 1.5 mg/kg with good haemodynamic stability and no side-effects but the duration of action was longer with rocuronium bromide 1.2 mg/kg as compared to rocuronium bromide 0.9 mg/kg. So, to avoid unwanted sideeffects of succinylcholine in children, rocuronium bromide 1.2 mg/kg can be used as an alternative to succinylcholine 1.5 mg/kg in children undergoing elective surgeries where early return of spontaneous recovery is not needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim and Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the duration of action of Rocuronium and Suxamethonium during elective thyroidectomy. Methodology : This double-blind experimental study included 60 patients ranging in age from 18 to 60 years old who underwent elective thyroidectomy under general anaesthesia after approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee and written patient consent Result: The Duration of action was comparable between the groups with statistically significant difference (p value is less than 0.05). For analysis of difference in duration of action "t" test was used. P value is less than 0.05, (p=0.000) indicating that highly significant difference between the groups in the duration of action. Conclusion: The study found that Rocuronium has a significantly longer duration of action than Suxamethonium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 21-year-old woman developed an acute myotonic reaction while undergoing anaesthesia using succinylcholine. Examination later showed she had shoulder, neck and calf hypertrophy, bilateral symmetrical ptosis and eyelid, handgrip and percussion myotonia. Peripheral neurophysiology studies identified significant, continuous myotonic discharges in both upper and lower limbs. Genetic analysis identified a c.3917G>A (p.Gly1306Glu) mutation in the SCN4A gene, confirming a diagnosis of sodium channel myotonia. Succinylcholine and other depolarising agents can precipitate lifethreatening acute myotonic reactions when given to patients with myotonia. Patients with neuromuscular disorders are at an increased risk of perioperative anaesthetic complications. We report a woman who developed an acute myotonic reaction whilst undergoing anaesthesia, in the context of an unrecognised myotonic disorder. We then discuss an approach to the diagnosis of myotonic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Suxamethonium, a depolarizing neuromuscular agent, was introduced in 1952 and since then has been used for tracheal intubation. It was favoured for its rapid onset and ultra-short duration of action but has numerous side effects, especially cardiovascular. So agents with low potency and shorter duration of action were developed, and in 1995, Rocuronium was introduced, which is a non-depolarizing agent and has the fastest onset of action. Aim and objective: The aim of the study was to compare the intubating conditions at 60 seconds after giving Rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg and Suxamethonium 1 mg/kg intravenously. Methods: In this clinical trial, a total of 60 patients were enrolled. Patients were divided into groups A and B. Group A received Rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg intravenously, and Group B received suxamethonium 1 mg/kg, and all were intubated after 1 minute. Intubation conditions were noted and scored according to a modification of the Kreig et al.,. method. Results: It was observed that intubation conditions were excellent in both groups; there was tachycardia associated with the Rocuronium group, and blood pressure was higher in the Suxamethonium group. Conclusion: Rocuronium can be acceptable for intubation instead of Suxamethonium, except in conditions anticipating difficult intubation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malignant hyperthermia is a rare, life-threatening pharmacogenetic disorder which presents as a hypermetabolic response to volatile anesthetics and depolarizing muscle relaxants in susceptible individuals. This susceptibility is associated with mutations in three genes: RYR1, CACNA1S and STAC3. Can manifest with mild symptoms or as a fulminant crisis, with severe rhabdomyolysis, ventricular fibrillation and acute renal and circulatory failure, therefore the prognosis depends on how soon the diagnosis is suspected and how fast treatment is started. The definitive diagnosis is based on a fresh muscle biopsy sensitivity test and genetic testing. The best way to prevent an event is the early detection of susceptible, as well as have equipment to respond to a crisis in each center where volatile anesthetics are administered and the training of staff. This review synthesizes current clinical and biomedical concepts for detection, prevention, diagnosis and management of malignant hyperthermia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the frequency at which postintubation sedation is administered following use of long-acting paralytic agents compared to short-acting paralytic agents during rapid sequence intubation performed in the emergency department. Methods: This retrospective, single-center study of intubated patients in the emergency department analyzed the difference in time to administration of additional sedation following use of a short-acting paralytic (succinylcholine) compared to use of a long-acting paralytic (rocuronium or vecuronium). A total of 387 patients were available for analysis. The primary outcome was additional sedation given within 15 minutes following administration of a paralytic agent. The secondary outcome sought to evaluate the incidence of hyperkalemia due to paralytic agents by comparing potassium level before and after paralytic administration. Results: 46.9% of patients who received a short-acting paralytic agent received additional sedation within 15 minutes, compared to 40.9% of patients who received a long-acting paralytic agent. The Chi-square analysis comparing the short and long-acting paralytic groups showed no statistically significant difference (χ² [1, N = 387] = 1.24, P =.266) in the frequency of additional sedation administered. Excluding patients who did not receive any additional sedation, the mean time from paralytic administration to additional sedation in all patients was 20.03 ± 18 minutes. No statistically significant difference was detected between groups regarding changes in potassium level. Conclusion: The use of long-acting paralytic agents was not associated with increased time to administration of sedation compared to shortacting paralytic agents. There is an opportunity to reduce the time to sedation administration for intubated patients receiving both short- and long-acting paralytic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anesthesia-associated rhabdomyolysis is a rare complication of surgery that causes postoperative myalgia, weakness, and potential renal failure if not managed promptly. Predisposing conditions that may lead to this complication include muscular dystrophies and myopathies.Case Presentation: This rare case describes a pediatric non-Indigenous Australian patient developing this complication, with no known predisposing risk factors, and no clear etiology. A 9-year-old child with a background of asthma underwent an elective removal of keloid scar on her chest wall. The procedure was brief and uncomplicated, with an uneventful induction of anesthesia. During the emergence period, she developed acutely raised airway pressures with bronchospasm and laryngospasm requiring the use of salbutamol and suxamethonium with good effect. In the initial postoperative period, the patient complained of generalized myalgia and muscle weakness and was unable to mobilize independently. There was transient recovery to normal function; however, a recurrence of symptoms the following day with associated myalgias warranted admission to hospital. She was found to have rhabdomyolysis that was managed conservatively with a full recovery of several weeks. She was thoroughly investigated for any underlying cause, including genetic testing for malignant hyperthermia susceptibility (she had a variant of unknown significance but was negative for the known genetic abnormalities that cause malignant hyperthermia).Conclusion: This case report demonstrates the importance of considering anesthesia-associated rhabdomyolysis as a differential for acute postoperative weakness, and outlines an investigative approach. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first case described in the pediatric literature to report biphasic progression of symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The feasibility of implementing a revised Montpellier intubation bundle incorporating recent evidences was tested in a quality-improvement project. It was hypothesized that this "Care Bundle" implementation would reduce intubation-related complications. Materials and methods: The project was conducted in an 18-bedded multidisciplinary intensive care unit (ICU). Baseline data for intubations were collected over 3-month "Control Period". During the 2-month "Interphase", a revised intubation bundle was developed, and staff members involved in the intubation process were extensively trained on different aspects of intubation with emphasis on bundle components. Various components of the bundle were pre-intubation fluid loading, pre-oxygenation with NIV plus PS, positive-pressure ventilation post-induction, succinylcholine as a first-line induction agent, routine use of stylet, and lung recruitment within 2 minutes of intubation. Intubation data were collected again in the 3-month "Intervention Period". Results: Data were collected for 61 and 64 intubations, respectively, during control and intervention periods. There was significant improvement in compliance to five of six-bundle components; improvement in pre-intubation fluid loading during the intervention period did not reach statistical significance. Overall, at least 3 components of the bundle were compiled within over 92% of intubations in the intervention period. However, whole-bundle compliance was limited to 14.3%. Incidences of major complications were reduced significantly in the intervention period (23.8% vs 45.9%, p = 0.01). There was significant reduction in profound hypotension (21.77% vs 29.51%, p = 0.04) and a nonsignificant 11.89% reduction in profound hypoxemia. There were no differences in minor complications. Conclusion: Implementation of an evidence-based revised Montpellier intubation bundle is feasible and it reduces major complications related to endotracheal intubation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims Cisatracurium has many advantages over other nondepolarizing muscle relaxants; however, for rapid intubation, rocuronium is the preferred drug in lieu of succinylcholine. The aim of this study was to compare the onset time and intubating conditions at 90 s using 0.3 mg/kg cisatracurium (6x ED95) versus 1.2 mg/kg rocuronium (4x ED95). Material and methods The study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital as a randomized double-blind prospective study after obtaining the ethical committee clearance. A total of 60 patients were randomly assigned to receive 1.2 mg/kg rocuronium (4x ED95) or 0.3 mg/kg cisatracurium (6x ED95) after premedication with fentanyl-midazolam and induction with propofol-sevoflurane. Laryngoscopy and intubation were done at 90 s. Primary outcomes assessed were laryngoscopy and intubation conditions and onset times. The Student t test was used to compare prospective, repeated measures. χ² test was used to test the significance of difference for qualitative variables. Results The onset of action of the muscle relaxant was predicted by measuring train-of-four ratio and was found to be significantly longer in the cisatracurium group (149.50 ±25.064 s) than in the rocuronium group (101±s) (P<0.05). Although the intubating conditions were better in the rocuronium group, cisatracurium also provided good to excellent intubation conditions at 90 s. Conclusion Cisatracurium can be used to intubate the trachea at 90 s at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg in patients premedicated with fentanyl-midazolam and induced with propofol-sevoflurane, while maintaining hemodynamic stability, without increasing the incidence of adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intravenous dantrolene is often prescribed for hypermetabolic syndromes other than the approved indication of malignant hyperthermia (MH). To clarify the extent of and indications for dantrolene use in conditions other than MH, we sought to document current practices in the frequency, diagnoses, clinical characteristics and outcomes associated with dantrolene treatment in critical care settings. Methods: Inpatients receiving intravenous dantrolene from October 1, 2004 to September 30, 2014 were identified retrospectively in the U.S. Veterans Health Administration national database. Extracted data included; diagnoses of hypermetabolic syndromes; triggering drugs; dantrolene dosages; demographics; vital signs; laboratory values; in-hospital mortality; complications; and lengths of stay. Frequency and mortality of patients who did not receive dantrolene were obtained in selected diagnoses for exploratory comparisons. Results: Dantrolene was administered to 304 inpatients. The most frequent diagnoses associated with dantrolene treatment were neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS; N = 108, 35.53%) and sepsis (N = 47, 15.46%), with MH accounting for only 13 (4.28%) cases. Over half the patients had psychiatric comorbidities and received psychotropic drugs before dantrolene treatment. Common clinical findings in patients receiving dantrolene included elevated temperature (mean ± SD; 38.7 ± 1.3 °C), pulse (116.33 ± 22.80/bpm), respirations (27.75 ± 9.58/min), creatine kinase levels (2,859.37 ± 6,646.88 IU/L) and low pO2 (74.93 ± 40.16 mmHg). Respiratory, renal or cardiac failure were common complications. Mortality rates in-hospital were 24.01% overall, 7.69% in MH, 20.37% in NMS and 42.55% in sepsis, compared with mortality rates in larger and possibly less severe groups of unmatched patients with MH (5.26%), NMS (6.66%), or sepsis (41.91%) who did not receive dantrolene. Conclusions: In over 95% of cases, dantrolene administration was associated with diagnoses other than MH in critically-ill patients with hypermetabolic symptoms and medical and psychiatric comorbidities. Exploratory survey data suggested that the efficacy and safety of dantrolene in preventing mortality in hypermetabolic syndromes other than MH remain uncertain. However, randomized and controlled studies using standardized criteria between groups matched for severity are essential to guide practice in using dantrolene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Succinylcholine is the best agent for providing ideal intubating condition. Muscle fasciculation is common after succinylcholine administration and causes postoperative myalgia. Pretreatment with non depolarising muscle relaxant decreases fasciculation and myalgia after succinylcholine administration. Aim: To compare the efficacy between cisatracurium and rocuronium in preventing succinylcholine induced fasciculation in patients undergoing general anaesthesia and determining association between fasciculation and myalgia after succinylcholine use. Materials and Methods: The present study was a hospital-based, randomised, double-blinded clinical study conducted from January 2020 to July 2020. The study included 64 patients of American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grade I and II undergoing surgery under general anaesthesia which were randomly allocated in two groups. Group 1 (N=32) received intravenous (i.v.) cisatracurium (0.01 mg/kg) and Group 2 (N=32) received i.v. rocuronium (0.06 mg/kg) as precurarising agent, three minutes before i.v. succinylcholine (1.5 mg/kg) administration. Incidence and intensity of fasciculation after succinylcholine injection were observed using a 4 point scale. Haemodynamic parameters were compared by measuring Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) and Heart Rate (HR) before and after intubation. Patients were followed-up in Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) on postoperative day 1 (POD1) for myalgia. Observations in two groups were analysed using standard statistical test. Results: Fasciculation was significantly lower in Group 2 (mean 0.2187±0.4200) than Group 1 (mean 1.125±0.833, p<0.001). A significant association was found between fasciculation after succinylcholine injection and postoperative myalgia (p-value=0.007). Group 2 had less incidence of myalgia than Group 1. However, the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Rocuronium was more efficacious than cisatracurium in preventing succinylcholine induced fasciculation and rocuronium was more effective in preventing succinylcholine-related postoperative myalgia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraocular pressure (IOP) is crucial to the well-being of eyes. During anesthesia, the administration of succinylcholine and endotracheal intubation are associated with an increase in IOP, which may be attenuated by short-acting opioids. However, the drug of choice among the commonly used short-acting opioids is unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fentanyl, sufentanil, alfentanil, and remifentanil on IOP measured after the administration of succinylcholine and after endotracheal intubation in patients undergoing general anesthesia. Five databases were searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared short-acting opioids and reported at least one of the clinical outcomes of interest were included. Nine RCTs with 357 patients were included. Remifentanil (1 μg kg−1) more effectively alleviated the increase in IOP than the placebo after the administration of succinylcholine [mean difference (MD) of IOP, −3.64; confidence interval (CI), −5.47 to −1.81 and after endotracheal intubation (MD, −9.71; CI, −11.91 to −7.51). Remifentanil (1 μg kg−1) ranked the best in terms of both attenuating the increase in IOP after the administration of succinylcholine [surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA), 0.91; normalized entropy (NE), 0.47; and after endotracheal intubation (SUCRA, 0.89; NE, 0.54) among all of the treatments. Remifentanil (1 μg kg−1) should be considered the drug of choice in the circumstances where increased IOP is a great concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Succinylcholine with quick onset, ultra short duration of action, and complete predictable paralysis has been the best drug for endotracheal intubation but the occurrence of side effects such as muscle fasciculations, postoperative myalgia, rise in serum potassium levels and myoglobinuria limits its use in the full stomach, burns, massive trauma, metabolic acidosis, and few myopathies. For attenuation of these effects, many drugs have been studied but pre-treatment with non-depolarizing muscle relaxant found to be successful. Aims and Objectives: This study was designed to assess the effect of Rocuronium and Vecuronium pre-treatment on post-succinylcholine fasciculations, rise in serum potassium levels, and postoperative myalgia. Materials and Methods: 100 patients between the age of 20–50 years of either sex (American Society of Anaesthesiologists grade I and II) undergoing general anesthesia for various surgical procedures were randomly allocated into two groups according to pre-treatment with Rocuronium (Group R) and Vecuronium (Group V) before Succinylcholine administration. After Succinylcholine administration severity of fasciculations, rise in serum potassium after 5 min and myalgia on postoperative days 1, 2, and 3 were recorded. Results: About 74% patients had no fasciculation in Group R as compared to 36% in group V. Statistically insignificant (P>0.05) rise in serum potassium level was observed in both groups. Higher number of patients had mild-to-moderate degree of myalgia with Vecuronium on postoperative days 2 and 3. Conclusion: Pre-treatment with Rocuronium before Succinylcholine provided better attenuation of post-succinylcholine muscle fasciculations, postoperative myalgia with statistically insignificant rise in serum potassium levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Laryngeal mask airway (LMA) is used more often in today's anaesthesia practice. Smooth and successful insertion needs proper mouth opening and minimal or no airway reflexes such as gagging, coughing, or laryngospasm. Induction agents like propofol and etomidate are known to blunt the laryngeal reflexes but often patient movement, coughing, and gagging create an unpleasant situation. Aim: To assess the effects of Suxamethonium 0.25 mg/kg, and 0.5 mg/kg, and placebo (normal saline) on the facilitation of laryngeal mask airway insertion along with Etomidate as an induction agent in order to achieve hemodynamic stability and fewer complications Materials and Methods: A total of 90 adult patients, American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) class I-II, scheduled for minor surgery under general anaesthesia were included in double-blind randomised controlled study, conducted from December 2021 to February 2022. The total participants were randomly allocated into three groups (Normal Saline (NS), S1 and S2). The group NS (placebo) received normal saline, and Group S1 and S2 received injections of Suxamethonium 0.25 mg/kg, or 0.5 mg/kg, respectively. Induction of anaesthesia was performed with a bolus dose of etomidate 0.3 mg/kg. Study drugs were administered when the patient had lost consciousness. Laryngeal mask airway size 3 or 4 (as appropriate) was inserted. Relaxation of the jaw, coughing, gagging, laryngospasm, and any patient movements was observed during the insertion of LMA. The overall insertion conditions were graded according to modified scheme of Lund and Stovner. The statistical analysis was carried out by using chi-square test, Fisher's exact test and Bonferroni's t-test. Results: A total of 89 patients were analysed (Group NS: n=29, group S1: n=30, Group S2: n=30). Good jaw relaxation (absolutely relaxed with no muscle tone) was noted in 16 patients of Group S2, 12 in Group S1, and 2 in Group NS (p<0.001). There was significant difference in coughing and gagging among the three groups (p=0.041). However, in the group NS, eight patients had mild movement and six had moderate movement during the insertion of LMA (p=0.002). Overall insertion conditions were better in suxamethonium groups (p=0.0001). Conclusion: Etomidate as the sole induction agent for LMA insertion is not ideal. Concurrent use of a low dose of suxamethonium (0.5 mg/kg) might significantly obtund the airway reflexes in response to LMA insertion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neuromuscular monitoring should be applied routinely to avoid residual neuromuscular block. However, anaesthetists often refrain from applying it, even when the equipment is available. We aimed to increase neuromuscular monitoring in six Danish anaesthesia departments via e‐learning. Methods: Interrupted time series study, with baseline data from a previous study and prospective data collection after implementation of the module, which was available for 2 weeks from 21 November 2016. We included all patients receiving general anaesthesia with muscle relaxants until 30 April 2017. Main outcome was application of acceleromyography, grouped as succinylcholine only and non‐depolarising relaxants. Secondary outcomes were last recorded train‐of‐four ratio (non‐depolarising) relaxants and score on a ten‐question pre‐ and post‐course multiple‐choice test. Results: The post‐intervention data consisted of 6525 cases (3099 (48%) succinylcholine only, 3426 (52%) non‐depolarising relaxants). Analysing all departments, we found a positive pre‐intervention trend in application of acceleromyography for both groups, of estimated 7.5% and 4.8% per year, respectively (p <.001). The monitoring rate increased significantly for succinylcholine in two departments post‐intervention (p =.045 and.010), and for non‐depolarising relaxants in one department (p =.041), but followed by a negative trend of −37.0% per year (p =.041). The rate was already close to 90% at the time of the intervention and the mean last recorded train‐of‐four ratio was 0.97 (SD 0.21), also without a significant change. The median score on the post‐course test increased from 7 (IQR 5–8) to 9 (IQR 8–10) (p <.001, Wilcoxon Signed‐Ranks Test). Conclusion: We found no overall effect of the e‐learning module on application of neuromuscular monitoring, although the post‐course test indicated an effect on anaesthetists' knowledge in this field. Trial registration: Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02925143. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02925143 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anesthetic management of the patient with mitochondrial disease (MD) requires thoughtful preoperative planning and hypervigilant perioperative monitoring. MD affects 1 in 4,000 persons and is often an unfamiliar topic to the anesthesia provider. This review aims to inform the anesthetist on important considerations in perioperative management of MD. Patients with MD have impaired mitochondrial energy formation pathways affecting function of cardiac, central nervous, and musculoskeletal systems. All general anesthetics interfere with these mitochondrial bioenergetic pathways. MD patients exhibit hypersensitivity to volatile anesthetics. Propofol interferes with mitochondrial function via multiple pathways thus its use should be limited. MD is not at increased risk for malignant hyperthermia and should not be managed with prolonged propofol infusion. Succinylcholine is contraindicated due to hyperkalemia and myotonic risks. Nondepolarizing agents should be used with caution given unpredictable effects. No single anesthetic plan has been found to be safer than another in patients with MD. Intravenous and volatile anesthetics should be titrated incrementally while monitoring anesthetic depth clinically or via processed electroencephalogram (EEG). All MD patients should be optimized by minimizing fasting times, careful fluid selection to avoid lactate, and hypervigilant temperature management aimed at reducing the detrimental effects of catabolic stress during the perioperative period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Magnesium Sulphate (MgSO4) pre-administration is effective in reducing Succinylcholine (Sch) induced fasciculations due to its effect at presynaptic end plate. Magnesium competes with calcium at the pre-synaptic end plate of neuromuscular junction and inhibits the release of acetylcholine (Ach) from the motor nerve terminal and to a lesser extent, decreases the sensitivity of the postjunctional membrane and reduces the excitability of the muscle fibre. Aim: To evaluate three doses of MgSO4 in reducing the incidence and severity of fasciculations and correlate with the serum magnesium levels. Materials and Methods: This prospective, randomised clinical trial was at Vijayanagar Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS), Ballari, India. Ninety consenting adult patients aged 20-50 years scheduled for elective surgeries with endotracheal intubation under general anaesthesia were randomly allocated to three groups-Group 1, Group 2 and Group 3, to receive Injection (Inj.) MgSO4 20 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg, respectively, before induction. Induction with Inj. propofol (2 mg/kg) was followed by administration of Inj. Sch (1.5 mg/kg). The main outcome parameters were the incidence of fasciculations and grading of the severity. Haemodynamic responses from the basal levels and after intubation, and adverse effects to the study drugs were noted. Chi-square test was used to find the significance of study parameters on categorical scale among the groups. Probability values at <0.05 were considered as significant. Results: The incidence of fasciculations was 90%, 53.4% and 43.4% in groups 1, 2 & 3, respectively. Greater number of patients had grade 3 fasciculations in group 1 (20%), compared to group 2 and group 3 (3.4% and nil) respectively. The fall in blood pressure after MgSO4 was comparable among the three groups. Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) increased by 23.5% and 18.5%, 7.9% and 4.1% and 2.8% and 2.7% in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively at one minute. The SBP and DBP at 3rd and 5th minute stayed at statistically significant greater levels in group 1 as compared to groups 2 and 3, but were similar in groups 2 and 3 overall. The Heart Rate (HR) changes followed similar trend in all 3 groups. Incidence of feeling of warmth was highest in group three as compared to other groups. Conclusion: MgSO4 at 40 mg/kg can be the optimal dose to suppress Sch-induced fasciculations, with better attenuation of intubation associated haemodynamic changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rapid sequence induction is a well-established anesthetic procedure used in patients with a high risk of gastric aspiration. Suxamethonium has been the drug of choice; however, it carries potential risks and sometimes fatal outcomes. The aim of our study was to compare rocuronium after pretreatment with dexmedetomidine, to suxamethonium in providing excellent intubating conditions in rapid sequence induction in adults. Patients were randomly allocated to one of two groups, of 120 each. Control group (SS), patients received pretreatment with 10 ml 0.9% saline over 10 min and suxamethonium 1mg/kg. Experimental group (DR), received pretreatment with dexmedetomidine 1 μg/kg in 10 ml 0.9% saline over 10 min and rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg. Our primary endpoint was the number of patients who scored "excellent" on intubation conditions score, while secondary outcomes were hemodynamics and adverse events. Results: The rate of excellent intubating conditions in the DR group 46% was insignificantly less (P value = 0.548) than that of the SS group 49% (relative risk (RR) of DR compared to SS = 1.04, with a confidence interval (CI) of 0.91–1.48. The percentage of patients with adverse events in the SS group was (30%) nearly more than twofold higher than that of the DR group (11%). A significant difference (P value = 0.016) in the incidence of excellent intubating conditions was higher in the female gender 59% compared to the male gender 38% (adjusted RR = 0.98, with a confidence interval of 0.79–1.1). Conclusion: A combination of dexmedetomidine 1μg/kg and standard intubating dose of rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg provided comparable endotracheal intubation conditions to suxamethonium 1 mg/kg during RSI and might be used as an alternative to suxamethonium in situations where suxamethonium is contraindicated. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04709315 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Succinylcholine is a preferred muscle relaxant for rapid sequence intubation. Postoperative myalgia (POM) is one of its commonest adverse effects with unknown pathogenesis. Various modalities were examined to reduce POM. We hypothesized that duloxetine may reduce the incidence and severity of fasciculation or succinylcholine‐induced POM in outpatient surgeries. Methods: This randomized double‐blinded trial involved controlled 70 adult participants scheduled for elective direct microlaryngoscopic surgeries. Before induction of general anesthesia by 2 h, 35 patients received duloxetine 30 mg orally (group D) and 35 patients received similar oral starch placebo capsules (group C). Fasciculations, POM, sedation score, time to first rescue analgesia, total analgesic consumption 24 h after surgery, patients' satisfaction, and adverse effects were recorded. Results: Incidence of fasciculation was 77.1% and 94.3% in groups D and C (p value = 0.04), whereas its severity was not significant between groups (p value = 0.09). Incidence and severity of POM were significantly lower in group D (p values = 0.004 and 0.021). Positive correlation was recorded between fasciculations and POM scores (r = 0.732 and p < 0.001). Time required for first analgesia was prolonged in group D (p value < 0.001) with less total analgesic consumption (p value = 0.039). The potassium and creatine kinase levels showed significant differences between both groups after 30 min and 24 h, respectively (p value < 0.05). Sedation scores and patients' satisfaction were better in duloxetine group (p value < 0.05) with no severe complications. Conclusions: Preoperative oral duloxetine 30 mg administration decreased incidence and severity of succinylcholine‐related muscle POM and fasciculations. It was also effective in reducing postoperative rescue analgesic requirement with better patients' satisfaction and no serious adverse effects. Preoperative oral duloxetine 30 mg administration decreased the incidence and the severity of succinylcholine‐related muscle postoperative myalgia and fasciculations. It was also effective in reducing postoperative rescue analgesic requirement with better patients' satisfaction and no serious adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Succinylcholine has been the main neuromuscular blocking agent for the endotracheal intubation in rapid sequence induction with some adverse effects. This study was conducted to find a better alternate drug with minimal adverse effects and easy for intubations. Thus, our study aimed to compare the onset time, duration of action, intubating condition and hemodynamic effect of rocuronium bromide at the dose of 0.8 mg/kg and Succinylcholine at the dose of 1.5 mg/kg. Materials and methods: A double blinded randomized control study was conducted among 60 patients undergoing surgery each groups having 30 patients, Duration of action, Hemodynamic parameters, and intubating conditions were assessed after administering drugs in each group. Appropriate statistical tests were applied P value < 0.05 was considered to be significant Results: The mean of onset of action of succinylcholine is significantly shorter than that of rocuronium (48.07 ± 4.04 Vs 74.4 ± 9.1); and duration of action succinylcholine is significantly shorter than that of the rocuronium (3.85 ± 0.33 Vs 44.4 ± 4.7). Both the drugs significantly elevated mean Heart rate, Systolic Blood Pressure, Diastolic Blood pressure, MAP from intubation to subsequent intervals. Conclusion: The rocuronium bromide (0.8 mg/kg) has longer duration of action and slower onset of action than succinylcholine (1.5 mg/kg) with excellent intubating condition and minimal alteration in hemodynamic profile. Hence rocuronium bromide (0.8 mg/kg) can be used as an alternative to Succinylcholine (1.5 mg/kg) in selected situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients at risk of malignant hyperthermia need trigger-free anesthesia. Therefore, anesthesia machines prepared for safe use in predisposed patients should be free of volatile anesthetics. The washout time depends on the composition of rubber and plastic in the anesthesia machine. Therefore, new anesthesia machines should be evaluated regarding the safe preparation for trigger-free anesthesia. This study investigates wash out procedures of volatile anesthetics for two new anesthetic workstations: Dräger Atlan A350 and General Electric Healthcare (GE) Carestation 650 and compare it with preparation using activated charcoal filters (ACF). Methods: A Dräger Atlan and a Carestation 650 were contaminated with 4% sevoflurane for 90 min. The machines were decontaminated with method (M1): using ACF, method 2 (M2): a wash out method that included exchange of internal parts, breathing circuits and soda lime canister followed by ventilating a test lung using a preliminary protocol provided by Dräger or method 3 (M3): a universal wash out instruction of GE, method 4 (M4): M3 plus exchange of breathing system and bellows. Decontamination was followed by a simulated trigger-free ventilation. All experiments were repeated with 8% desflurane contaminated machines. Volatile anesthetics were detected with a closed gas loop high-resolution ion mobility spectrometer with gas chromatographic pre-separation attached to the bacterial filter of the breathing circuits. Primary outcome was time until < 5 ppm of volatile anesthetics and total preparation time. Results: Time to < 5 ppm for the Atlan was 17 min (desflurane) and 50 min (sevoflurane), wash out continued for a total of 60 min according to protocol resulting in a total preparation time of 96-122 min. The Carestation needed 66 min (desflurane) and 24 min (sevoflurane) which could be abbreviated to 24 min (desflurane) if breathing system and bellows were changed. Total preparation time was 30-73 min. When using active charcoal filters time to < 5 ppm was 0 min for both machines, and total preparation time < 5 min. Conclusion: Both wash out protocols resulted in a significant reduction of trace gas concentrations. However, due to the complexity of the protocols and prolonged total preparation time, feasibility in clinical practice remains questionable. Especially when time is limited preparation of the anesthetic machines using ACF remain superior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is nowadays used commonly as one the most effective treatment methods in psychiatric disorders. In patients undergoing ECT, succinylcholine is usually used. In addition, cisatracurium is occasionally used on a case report basis globally. In this study, we compared the hemodynamic changes and serum potassium levels in the use of succinylcholine and cisatracurium in ECT. Materials and Methods: The current crossover clinical trial was performed on 45 patients who were candidates for ECT between 2017 and 2018. The patients were given succinylcholine or cisatracurium randomly on two separate occasions of ECT. The independent t-test and Chi square Test were used to compare the data. Results: Comparison of mean systolic blood pressure (P = 0.14), diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.33), and mean arterial pressure (P = 0.23) did not show any significant difference between the two groups. The induced seizure duration (P = 0.002), return of spontaneous respiratory from seizure ending (P = 0.001), and apnea duration (P = 0.01) were significantly higher in the cisatracurium group compared to the succinylcholine group. However, the frequency of tachycardia in cisatracurium group was lower than the succinylcholine group (P < 0.001). In addition, the serum potassium level had a significant difference (P < 0.001) between the two groups. Conclusion: Using cisatracurium can be an alternative to succinylcholine during ECT since it causes less elevation in serum potassium and creates a longer duration of induced seizure, more rapid re emergence of spontaneous breathing at the end of seizure (P = 0.001), and a lower prevalence of tachycardia compared to succinylcholine (P < 0.001). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Use of succinylcholine in neonates is surrounded by many controversies. The need to review this topic stems from the fact that though there is an abundance of information, but there are divergent views regarding its use in neonates. We have analyzed the incidence of intubation attempts, bradycardia, and hemodynamic changes in clinical settings. The authors conducted a meta-analysis and systematic literature search to ascertain the risks and benefits of using succinylcholine in neonatal intubation by conducting a review in the online databases of PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, Embase, Elsevier, and Google scholar. The combination of keywords used for the search included "Succinylcholine," "succinylcholine" AND "neonates," "neonates" AND "difficult airway," "neuromuscular blockers" AND "neonates," and "non-depolarizing neuromuscular blockers" AND "neonates". The severe adverse reactions associated with use of succinylcholine include bradycardia, asystole, hyperkalemia, and apnea. The number of attempts required for intubation was significantly lower in the patients receiving succinylcholine as compared to those who did not receive succinylcholine. Evidence suggests that conscious awake intubation leads to adverse physiological responses in neonates. The main recommended indications for using succinylcholine include emergency intubation in laryngospasm, full stomach, difficult airway, absent intravenous access, and controlled endotracheal intubation in the neonatal intensive care unit. Hence, the use of succinylcholine can be rationally accepted after considerations of the pre-operative clinical status of the neonate and risk-benefit ratio with more research further to build up strong evidence for the most appropriate agents for use in neonatal patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The skeletal muscle Cl− channels, the ClC‐1 channels, stabilize the resting membrane potential and dampen muscle fibre excitability. This study explored whether ClC‐1 inhibition can recover nerve‐stimulated force in isolated muscle under conditions of compromised neuromuscular transmission akin to disorders of myasthenia gravis and Lambert–Eaton syndrome. Methods: Nerve‐muscle preparations were isolated from rats. Preparations were exposed to pre‐or post‐synaptic inhibitors (ω‐agatoxin, elevated extracellular Mg2+, α‐bungarotoxin or tubocurarine). The potential of ClC‐1 inhibition (9‐AC or reduced extracellular Cl−) to recover nerve‐stimulated force under these conditions was assessed. Results: ClC‐1 inhibition recovered force in both slow‐twitch soleus and fast‐twitch EDL muscles exposed to 0.2 µmol/L tubocurarine or 3.5 mmol/L Mg2+. Similarly, ClC‐1 inhibition recovered force in soleus muscles exposed to α‐bungarotoxin or ω‐agatoxin. Moreover, the concentrations of tubocurarine and Mg2+ required for reducing force to 50% rose from 0.14 ± 0.02 µmol/L and 4.2 ± 0.2 mmol/L in control muscles to 0.45 ± 0.03 µmol/L and 4.7 ± 0.3 mmol/L in muscles with 9‐AC respectively (P <.05, paired T test). Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (neostigmine) and inhibition of voltage‐gated K+ channels (4‐AP) relieve symptoms in myasthenia gravis and Lambert–Eaton syndrome, respectively. Neostigmine and 9‐AC additively increased the tubocurarine concentration required to reduce nerve‐stimulated force to 50% (0.56 ± 0.05 µmol/L with 9‐AC and neostigmine) and, similarly, 4‐AP and 9‐AC additively increased the Mg2+ concentration required to reduce nerve‐stimulated force to 50% (6.5 ± 0.2 mmol/L with 9‐AC and 4‐AP). Conclusion: This study shows that ClC‐1 inhibition can improve neuromuscular function in pharmacological models of compromised neuromuscular transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have improved survival across tumor types however they cause immune‐related toxicities through removal of the inhibition of auto‐reactive T cells. In this case review, we present 4 patients with metastatic cancer who developed de‐novo neuromuscular side effects of myositis with overlapping seropositive myasthenia gravis after ICI treatment. Declaration: This study was performed in accordance to the ethical standards set by the SingHealth Institutional Review Board, with consent taken from living patients and waiver of consent from deceased patients (CIRB Ref 2019/2485). Supporting data were collected from our institution's digital medical records system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Administration of an optimal dose of anesthetic agent to ensure adequate depth of hypnosis with the lowest risk of adverse effects to the fetus is highly important in cesarean section. Sodium thiopental (STP) is still the first choice for induction of anesthesia in some countries for this obstetric surgery. We aimed to compare two doses of STP with regarding the depth of anesthesia and the condition of newborn infants. Methods: In this clinical trial, parturient undergoing elective Caesarian section were randomized into two groups receiving either low-dose (5 mg/kg) or high-dose (7 mg/kg) STP. Muscle relaxation was provided with succinylcholine 2 mg/kg and anesthesia was maintained with O2/N2O and sevoflurane. The depth of anesthesia was evaluated using isolated forearm technique (IFT) and bispectral index (BIS) in various phases. Additionally, infants were assessed using Apgar score and neurobehavioral test. Results: Forty parturient were evaluated in each group. BIS was significantly lower in high-dose group at skin incision to delivery and subcutaneous and skin closure. Also, significant differences were noticed in IFT over induction to incision and incision to delivery. Apgar score was significantly lower in high-dose group at 1 min after delivery. Newborn infants in low-dose group had significantly better outcomes in all three domains of the neurobehavioral test. Conclusion: 7 mg/kg STP is superior to 5 mg/kg in creating deeper hypnosis for mothers. However, it negatively impacts Apgar score and neurobehavioral test of neonates. STP seems to has dropped behind as an acceptable anesthetic in Cesarean section. Trial registration: IRCT No: 2016082819470 N45, 13/03/2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: the injectable succinylcholine 50 mg/mL is used for rapid tracheal intubations. Aim: to develop and introduce the injectable succinylcholine 50 mg/mL into the basic drug table. Three formulation variants were designed: two with antimicrobial and presentation preservatives (6R and 10R bulbs) and one unpreserved (6R bulbs). Methodology: the methods used for quality control and stability were validated. Laboratory, pilot and industrial-scale batches with the selected formula were studied for accelerated stability and service life. The designed variants showed adequate quality, selecting the non-preserved, to make batches at different scales. Chromatographic techniques used for the quantification of succinylcholine met established validation criteria. Results: the performance of sterility tests and bacterial endotoxin testing was demonstrated. The product under stability study indicated adequate physical and chemical behavior during the period evaluated. The feasibility of technological development was verified, with the formula selected for the injectable succinylcholine 50 mg/mL. Injectable was introduced in the national medicines basic table. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rapid-onset paralytic agents are recommended to achieve muscle relaxation and facilitate tracheal intubation during rapid sequence induction in patients at risk of pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents. However, opioids are frequently used in this setting. The study's objective is to demonstrate the non-inferiority of remifentanil compared to rapid-onset paralytic agents, in association with an hypnotic drug, for tracheal intubation in patients undergoing  procedure under general anesthesia and at risk of pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents.Methods: The REMICRUSH (Remifentanil for Rapid Sequence Induction of Anaesthesia) study is a multicenter, single-blinded, non-inferiority randomized controlled trial comparing remifentanil (3 to 4 μg/kg) with rapid-onset paralytic agents (succinylcholine or rocuronium 1 mg/kg) for rapid sequence induction in 1150 adult surgical patients requiring tracheal intubation during general anesthesia. Enrolment started in October 2019 in 15 French anesthesia units. The expected date of the final follow-up is October 2021. The primary outcome is the proportion of successful tracheal intubation without major complications. A non-inferiority margin of 7% was chosen. Analyses of the intent-to-treat and per-protocol populations are planned.Discussion: The REMICRUSH trial protocol has been approved by the ethics committee of The Comité de Protection des Personnes Sud-Ouest et Outre-Mer II and will be carried out according to the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and the Good Clinical Practice guidelines. The results of this study will be disseminated through presentations at scientific conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals. The REMICRUSH trial is the first randomized controlled trial powered to investigate whether remifentanil with hypnotics is non-inferior to rapid-onset paralytic agents with hypnotic in rapid sequence induction of anesthesia for full stomach patients considering successful tracheal intubation without major complication.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03960801. Registered on May 23, 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Poisoning and deaths by organo-phosphorous (OP) compounds are one of the major causes of death in developing and poor countries, and a common admission in the emergency ward and the ICU. OP compounds act by irreversibly binding to pseudocholinesterase enzyme and hence prolong the apnea in patients being given suxamethonium. We present a unusual case of OP poisoning (OPP) in which prolonged apnea ensued in a patient of severe depression following MECT (modified electroconvulsive therapy) in which suxamethonium was used as muscle relaxant, in whom we were cautious of the side-effect of prior organophosphorus poisoning. Since the cases of OPP are very high worldwide, a thorough knowledge of the interaction of the action of the drug and the receptors on which it acts takes pride of place. This article highlights the nuances in the field of psychiatry and anaesthesia in diagnosis and management of prolonged apnea after ECT. Case presentation: A 53/F patient consumed OP 38 days prior to MECT. Since existing literature recommend a delay of 4 weeks and a subminimal dose of suxamethonium to prevent prolonged apnea, both these points were taken into consideration. Despite 38 days post exposure to OP, and a dose of succinylcholine of < 0.3 mg/kg, the patient remained apneic for 3 h. Suxamethionum apnea was managed with elective ventilation. After recovery, patient had no residual effect. Subsequently her pseudocholinesterase levels were done which were found to be very low. Conclusion: This case is being presented to emphasize that behaviour of post synaptic receptors cannot be relied upon after OP poisoning and pseudocholinesterase levels needs to be mandatorily checked, irrespective of duration post-exposure. In strong suspects dibucaine number and fluoride number also needs to be estimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Variants of butyrylcholinesterase are frequently associated with prolonged response to suxamethonium or mivacurium. Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) can be characterized by phenotyping and determination of genotype. Inappropriate timing of blood sampling might interfere with phenotyping methods. However, guidelines regarding delay between exposure to anaesthesia and testing are not clearly defined. In this study, the BChE activity and phenotype in an early (T1) and late (T2) phase were compared and the phenotype/genotype correlation was assessed. Methods: Patients with a prolonged paralysis after mivacurium or suxamethonium were selected after ethical committee approval and written consent. BChE activity was based on butyrylthiocholine hydrolysis rate and phenotyping on differential inhibition of BChE activity with dibucaine and fluoride. DNA sequencing allowed genotypic characterization. Results: We included the results of 20 patients with prolonged neuromuscular block (NMB) induced by mivacurium or suxamethonium. In these patients, BChE activity was different at T1 and T2 (2120 [1506‐2733] U L−1 and 4055 [2810‐5301] U L−1, respectively; P = 0.0014; values are mean [95% CI]). When phenotyping was possible, phenotyping at T1 and T2 yielded identical results. Phenotyping failed to identify one new variant (p.Tyr146Cys) and the K variant in 14 of 16 patients. Conclusion: Anaesthesia interfered with BChE activity, but not with phenotyping. Phenotyping can be performed on blood drawn during or immediately after recovery of mivacurium or suxamethonium to screen for clinically relevant variants of BChE. However, accurate diagnosis of BChE deficiency needs further confirmation by determination of genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Succinylcholine causes a rise in Intraocular Pressure (IOP) and is deleterious in patients with open globe injuries. Dexmedetomidine, by its virtue of central sympatholytic action can help prevent this rise in IOP. Aim: To find out the optimal dose of Dexmedetomidine in preventing the rise of IOP after administration of Suxamethonium. Materials and Methods: One hundred American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I or II patients posted for non-ophthalmic surgery were included in this randomised, prospective, double blind study. Patients were randomly allocated to four groups. Group A (n=25) received Dexmedetomidine 0.6 μg/kg, Group B (n=25) received Dexmedetomidine 0.8 μg/kg, Group C (n=25) received Dexmedetomidine 1 μg/kg, Group D (n=25) received Normal Saline (NS) over a period of 10 minutes and IOP was measured at different points in time. Results: Premedication with Dexmedetomidine at doses of 0.6 μg/kg, 0.8 μg/kg and 1 μg/kg intravenous (IV) were equally effective in attenuation of the rise in IOP associated with Succinylcholine administration. The IOP recorded was 15.53±1.10 mm of Hg in Group A, 14.49±0.94 mm of Hg in Group B, 14.72±1.03 mm of Hg in Group C as compared to 20.12±1.40 mm of Hg in the control group (Group D) after 60 seconds of injecting Suxamethonium. It also significantly obtunded the sympathetic response to laryngoscopy and intubation. However, the incidence of side effects increased with incremental doses. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine 0.6 μg/kg IV premedication is the optimum dose to be used for attenuating the rise in IOP associated with Succinylcholine administration in situations where rise of IOP may be detrimental. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kainate receptors (KARs) are glutamate‐type receptors that mediate both canonical ionotropic currents and non‐canonical metabotropic signalling. While KARs are expressed widely throughout the brain, synaptic KAR currents have only been recorded at a limited set of synapses, and the KAR currents that have been recorded are relatively small and slow, which has led to the question, what is the functional significance of KARs? While the KAR current itself is relatively modest, its impact on inhibition in the hippocampus can be profound. In the CA1 region of the hippocampus, presynaptic KAR activation bidirectionally regulates γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) release in a manner that depends on the glutamate concentration; lower levels of glutamate facilitate GABA release via an ionotropic pathway, while higher levels of glutamate depress GABA release via a metabotropic pathway. Postsynaptic interneuron KAR activation increases spike frequency through an ionotropic current, which in turn can strengthen inhibition. In the CA3 region, postsynaptic KAR activation in pyramidal neurons also strengthens inhibition, but in this case through a metabotropic pathway which regulates the neuronal chloride gradient and hyperpolarizes the reversal potential for GABA (EGABA). Taken together, the evidence for KAR‐mediated regulation of the strength of inhibition via pre‐ and postsynaptic mechanisms provides compelling evidence that KARs are ideally positioned to regulate excitation–inhibition balance – through sensing the excitatory tone and concomitantly tuning the strength of inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background - Succinylcholine is a short-acting myorelaxant used in rapid sequence intubation, in obese patients and short operations. The need for prolonged myorelaxation requires safety precautions described in this case report. Patient - 34-year-old, morbidly obese man with OSA and PONV admitted for an elective deviated septum surgery. Anaesthesia - Standard monitoring + TOF Scan. Dexamethasone, lidocaine, fentanyl, propofol and succinylcholine were used for induction. After 3 minutes a 50 mg bolus of rocuronium was given. By the end of surgery there were no TOF responses. Return of neuromuscular conduction was observed after 30 minutes of the end of surgery and after 10 doses of 200 mg of sugammadex. Discussion and conclusions - Succinylcholine makes nicotine receptors more sensitive to non-depolarizing agents, which is why their dose should be significantly lower when used consecutively. When diagnosing prolonged myorelaxation hypothermia, inhalational anaesthetics, medications (eg. magnesium, lidocaine) and positioning of neuromuscular monitoring electrodes should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Succinylcholine is a depolarizing agent used for rapid sequence intubation (RIS). While the agent is the most widely used drug of choice in most emergency departments (EDs), the adverse effect profile is lengthy compared to nondepolarizing paralytic agents included rocuronium and vecuronium. Objectives: Our objective in this analysis is to detect potential safety signals and differences in safety related outcomes between patients that received succinylcholine compared to those that received rocuronium or vecuronium when undergoing RSI. Specifically, we asked whether there was a difference in all-cause mortality, whether succinylcholine was used in patient later found to have contraindications to the medication, as well as differences in the rates of rescue airway or difficult airway algorithms utilized. Methods: We utilize two clinical cases as a framework to review adverse events among ED patients undergoing RSI when using succinylcholine compared to nondepolarizing agents over a 7 years' period at our institution as part of a quality review project. The review is retrospective and does not allow us to link adverse events specifically with drug but, instead, considers aggregate level event frequency. Results: From January 31, 2013, to January 31, 2018, there were 36,059 intubations with paralytics in the ED (75.39% with succinylcholine and 24.61% with rocuronium or vecuronium). There was no evidence of death or associated adverse events in 98.49% of patients. Of 36,059 intubations, 14 patients expired, representing 0.039% of all RSI encounters. There were 39/100,000 total deaths during RSI events. There was a higher rate of mortality in the combined vecuronium/rocuronium group (90/100,000) compared to the sample of patients intubated with succinylcholine (22/100,000). Conclusions: While the succinylcholine adverse effect profile is concerning, data from our institution does not support removal of the agent as an available option for RSI as the mortality rate among patients receiving succinylcholine was lower than that of patients receiving non-depolarizing agents. Patient level data will be needed in future work to further understand why the all-cause mortality rate was higher in the group receiving rocuronium or vecuronium and whether those patients had increased risk of mortality from underlying disease at time of presentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Suxamethonium has been shown to have a superior modification of the convulsion associated with ECT compared to other muscle relaxants. The dosage of suxamethonium used in ECT varies widely based on the experiences of practitioners. The study aimed to determine and compare the effectiveness and side effect profile of 0.5 mg/kg and 1 mg/kg in modified ECT. Subjects and Methods: This was a prospective randomized crossover study, comparing the effects of suxamethonium at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg, and 1.0 mg/kg in 27 patients who had a total of 54 sessions of modified ECT. The primary outcome parameters were quality of convulsion and onset and duration of apnoea. The secondary outcome parameters were hemodynamic variables, arterial oxygen saturation, delayed recovery, muscle pain, vomiting, headache, prolonged convulsion, and serum potassium. Data collected were entered into proforma and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17.0. Parametric variables are presented as means and standard deviations while non-parametric variables are presented as frequencies and percentages. The level of significance (P-value) was considered at 0.05. Results: Sixteen patients (59%) had acceptable convulsion modification with 0.5 mg/kg suxamethonium compared to 23 patients (85%) with the use of 1.0 mg/kg suxamethonium (P = 0.016). There was no statistically significant difference in the duration of convulsion, the onset of apnoea, and the duration of apnoea with the two doses. Changes in heart rate, blood pressure, arterial oxygen saturation, and serum potassium level that accompany the mECT were comparable with the two doses of suxamethonium studied. Conclusions: A better modification of convulsion with comparable hemodynamic and side effect profile is achieved during mECT with the use of 1.0 mg/kg suxamethonium compared to 0.5 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction:  Infants with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis have gastric outlet obstruction, indicating a pyloromyotomy. To prevent aspiration, a rapid sequence induction (RSI) of anesthesia used to be preferred. However, due to concerns about the side-effects of this technique in infants, a modified RSI with gentle mask ventilation is nowadays mostly used. This research investigates if induction with succinylcholine (classic RSI), cisatracurium (modified RSI), or no neuromuscular blocking agent (NMBA) influences time until extubation and incidence of complications in infants undergoing laparoscopic pyloromyotomy.Materials and Methods:  A retrospective chart review was performed, observing infants undergoing laparoscopic pyloromyotomy in Erasmus Medical Centre-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, from January 2007 until July 2015. Baseline preoperative data, anesthesia and operation details, time to extubation, and reported complications were gathered. Inclusion criteria were maintenance of anesthesia with sevoflurane and a registered extubation time. Exclusion criteria were the use of combinations of NMBAs, repyloromyotomy, and conversion to laparotomy.Results:  A total of 168 patients were included, of which 21 received succinylcholine, 107 cisatracurium, and 40 no NMBA. Mean duration of surgery was 29 minutes in all three groups; mean duration of anesthesia was 89, 82, and 77 minutes; mean time to extubation was 26, 25, and 23 minutes, respectively, without statistically significant difference. Complications were evenly distributed, no aspiration occurred.Conclusion:  The use of succinylcholine, cisatracurium, or no NMBA at induction of anesthesia in infants undergoing laparoscopic pyloromyotomy had no statistically significant effect on time until extubation and complication rates. A modified RSI seems to be safe and effective in these cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA) insertion is often associated with complications such as gagging, laryngospasm and mobility of the head and neck while insertion. To overcome this and achieve a smooth insertion, many drugs are tried one of them is being succinylcholine. Aim: To assess the effects of low dose succinylcholine (0.1 mg/kg) on facilitation of LMA insertion to achieve adequate conditions with fewer or no side effects. Materials and Methods: Sixty patients of American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I and II grade were posted for elective surgeries under general anaesthesia with LMA. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups of 30 each. Control group (Group C) received a bolus dose of 2 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride I.V post induction. Study Group (Group S) received a bolus of succinylcholine 0.1 mg/kg diluted in 2 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride I.V post induction. Following activities like jaw relaxation, coughing/gagging, head and limb movements, presence or absence of laryngospasm and duration of apnea were noted and were compared using chi-square test, while performing LMA insertion under general anaesthesia. Results: It was found that the number of incidences of gagging (mild) and coughing (mild) in Group S was 3.33% and 0%, respectively, while it was 23.33% and 26.66% in Group C. It was found that group S had excellent insertion conditions in 94% of patients as compared to 36% of group C (p<0.001). In 93.33% of patients, LMA was inserted in 1st attempt in group S, whereas 40% of patients in group C required more than one insertion attempt and also 93.3% of patients in group S did not require excess propofol, whereas supplement doses of propofol in control group was required in 60% of patients. Conclusion: Low dose succinylcholine provides better LMA insertion conditions with reduced number of attempts, incidences of gagging and coughing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) with a non-depolarising mechanism of action carry the risk of postoperative residual paralysis and are associated with postoperative pulmonary complications (POPC). Owing to the shorter duration of action, the depolarising NMBA succinylcholine may be associated with less postoperative residual paralysis, and hence fewer POPC. We tested the association of succinylcholine administration during anaesthesia and POPC.Methods: In a retrospective cohort study of registry data from two large US academic medical centres, 244 850 adult noncardiac surgical patients undergoing general anaesthesia were included. The primary outcome was POPC, defined as post-extubation haemoglobin oxygen de-saturation to <90%, or re-intubation requiring intensive care unit admission within 7 days after surgery. The association between succinylcholine and POPC and its dose-dependency were tested in a hierarchical fashion using a multivariable logistic regression model.Results: A total of 13 206 patients (5.4%) experienced POPC. Use of succinylcholine was associated with increased risk of POPC (adjusted odds ratio [ORAdj]=1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06-1.16; P<0.001; adjusted risk=5.18%; 95% CI, 5.06-5.30 without and 5.69%; 95% CI, 5.53-5.85 with succinylcholine), with a dose-dependent relationship (ORAdj=1.08; 95% CI, 1.05-1.11 per mg kg-1; P<0.001). In patients receiving non-depolarising NMBAs, succinylcholine further increased the risk of POPC (ORAdj=1.08; 95% CI, 1.03-1.14; P=0.001). The association between succinylcholine and POPC was modified (P=0.03 for interaction) by the duration of surgery with higher odds of POPC in patients undergoing surgeries of <2 vs ≥2 h (ORAdj=1.24; 95% CI, 1.15-1.33 and 1.05; 95% CI, 1.00-1.10, respectively).Conclusions: In contrast to our prediction, succinylcholine administration was associated with an increased risk of POPC. This association was dose-dependent and magnified in surgeries of shorter duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraoperative anaphylactic reactions may range from mild, erythema-like to anaphylactic shock, with tension crash and bronchospasm. The substances considered to be most responsible for the occurrence of intraoperative allergic reactions are neuromuscular blocking agents, antibiotics and latex. Recent studies have identified a new receptor, Mas-Related G-Protein-coupled Receptor X2 (MRGPRX2), considered as a target for some neuromuscular blockers such as atracurium, rocuronium or fluoroquinolone, resulting in pseudoallergic or anaphylactoid reactions. Induction of anesthesia can use both depolarizing myorelaxants, useful especially in emergency situations, in the patient with gastric plenitude or at high risk of intubation, and non-depolarizing myorelaxants such as atracurium, cisatracurium and rocuronium. Succinylcholine has a short time of action and it is rapidly metabolized. Atracurium, although having a slightly longer time to action, has the benefit of a low risk of increased levels of potassium in blood, which is extremely important in patients with cardiac pathology or associated kidney diseases. The present study compared the side effects of systemic anesthesia with succinylcholine vs. atracurium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Timely application of objective neuromuscular monitoring can avoid residual neuromuscular blockade. We assessed the frequency of objective neuromuscular monitoring with acceleromyography and the last recorded train-of-four ratio in a cohort of Danish patients. We extracted data from all patients receiving general anaesthesia from November 2014 to November 2016 at six hospitals in the Zealand Region of Denmark. Acceleromyography was available in all operating rooms and data were recorded automatically. The primary outcome measure was acceleromyography use in patients receiving neuromuscular blocking agents, divided into non-depolarising agents and succinylcholine only. The dataset included 76,743 cases, of which 30,430 received a neuromuscular blocking drug. Non-depolarising drugs were used in 16,525 (54%) and succinylcholine as the sole drug in 13,905 (46%) cases. Acceleromyography was used in 14,463 (88%) patients who received a non-depolarising neuromuscular blocking drug and in 4224 (30%) receiving succinylcholine alone. Acceleromyography use varied between the departments from 58% to 99% for non-depolarising drugs and from 3% to 79% for succinylcholine alone. The median (IQR [range]) of the last recorded train-of-four ratio before tracheal extubation was 0.97 (0.90-1.06 [0.01-2.20]) when non-depolarising drugs were used, and was less than 0.9 in 22% of cases. The OR for oxygen desaturation was higher with the use of succinylcholine [2.51 (95%CI 2.33-2.70) p < 0.001] and non-depolarising drugs [2.57 (95%CI 2.32-2.84) p < 0.001] as compared with cases where no neuromuscular blockade drug was used. In conclusion, acceleromyography was almost always used in cases where non-depolarising neuromuscular blocking drugs were used, but a train-of-four ratio of 0.9 was not always achieved. Monitoring was used in less than 30% of cases where succinylcholine was the sole drug used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]