Synergistic Activities of Abdominal Muscles Are Required for Efficient Micturition in Anesthetized Female Mice / 대한배뇨장애요실금학회지

PURPOSE: To characterize the electromyographic activity of abdominal striated muscles during micturition in urethane-anesthetized female mice, and to quantitatively evaluate the contribution of abdominal responses to efficient voiding. METHODS: Cystometric and multichannel electromyographic recordings were integrated to enable a comprehensive evaluation during micturition in urethane-anesthetized female mice. Four major abdominal muscle domains were evaluated: the external oblique, internal oblique, and superior and inferior rectus abdominis. To further characterize the functionality of the abdominal muscles, pancuronium bromide (25 μg/mL or 50 μg/mL, abdominal surface) was applied as a blocking agent of neuromuscular junctions. RESULTS: We observed a robust activation of the abdominal muscles during voiding, with a consistent onset/offset concomitant with the bladder pressure threshold. Pancuronium was effective, in a dose-dependent fashion, for partial and complete blockage of abdominal activity. Electromyographic discharges during voiding were significantly inhibited by applying pancuronium. Decreased cystometric parameters were recorded, including the peak pressure, pressure threshold, intercontractile interval, and voiding duration, suggesting that the voiding efficiency was significantly compromised by abdominal muscle relaxation. CONCLUSIONS: The relevance of the abdominal striated musculature for micturition has remained a topic of debate in human physiology. Although the study was performed on anesthetized mice, these results support the existence of synergistic abdominal electromyographic activity facilitating voiding in anesthetized mice. Further, our study presents a rodent model that can be used for future investigations into micturition-related abdominal activity.

Association between levobupivacaine and pancuronium. Interference in neuromuscular transmission and blockade in rats

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of levobupivacaine on neuromuscular transmission and neuromuscular blockade produced by pancuronium in vitro. METHODS: Thirty rats were distributed into groups (n = 5) according to the drug used alone or in combination: Group I - levobupivacaine (5 µg.mL-1); Group II - pancuronium (2 µg.mL-1); Group III - pancuronium (2 µg.mL-1) + levobupivacaine (5µg.mL-1). The following parameters were evaluated: 1) amplitude of diaphragmatic response to indirect stimulation, before and 60 minutes after the addition of levobupivacaine and pancuronium alone, and after the addition of levobupivacaine combined with pancuronium; 2) membrane potentials (MP) and miniature endplate potentials (MEPP). RESULTS: Levobupivacaine alone did not alter the amplitude of muscle response and MP. In preparations previoulsy exposed to levobupivacaine, the block with pancuronium was significantly denser (90.2 ± 15.2%), showing a significant difference (p=0.031) in comparison to the block produced by pancuronium alone (48.9% ± 9.8%). There was a decrease in the frequency and amplitude of MEPPs. CONCLUSION: Levobupivacaine potentiated the neuromuscular blockade produced by pancuronium, confirming a presynaptic action by a decrease in miniature endplate potentials.

Effect of ropivacaine combined with pancuronium on neuromuscular transmission and effectiveness of neostigmine and 4-aminopyridine for blockade reversal: experimental study / Efeito da associação ropivacaina-pancurônio na transmissão neuromuscular e eficácia da neostigmine e 4-aminopiridina na reversão do bloqueio: estudo experimental / Efecto de la asociación ropivacaína-pancuronio en la transmisión neuromuscular. Eficacia de la neostigmina y 4-aminopiridina en la reversión del bloqueo. Estudio experimental

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The local anesthetic effects on neuromuscular junction and its influence on blockade produced by nondepolarizing neuromuscular blockers are still under-investigated; however, this interaction has been described in experimental studies and in humans. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro the interaction between ropivacaine and pancuronium, the influence on transmission and neuromuscular blockade, and the effectiveness of neostigmine and 4-aminopyridine to reverse the blockade. METHODS: Rats were divided into groups (n = 5) according to the study drug: ropivacaine (5 µg mL-1); pancuronium (2 µg mL-1); ropivacaine + pancuronium. Neostigmine and 4-aminopyridine were used at concentrations of 2 µg mL-1 and 20 µg mL-1, respectively. The effects of ropivacaine on membrane potential and miniature endplate potential, the amplitude of diaphragm responses before and 60 min after the addition of ropivacaine (degree of neuromuscular blockade with pancuronium and with the association of pancuronium-ropivacaine), and the effectiveness of neostigmine and 4-aminopyridine on neuromuscular block reversal were evaluated. RESULTS: Ropivacaine did not alter the amplitude of muscle response (the membrane potential), but decreased the frequency and amplitude of the miniature endplate potential. Pancuronium blockade was potentiated by ropivacaine, and partially and fully reversed by neostigmine and 4-aminopyridine, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Ropivacaine increased the neuromuscular block produced by pancuronium. The complete antagonism with 4-aminopyridine suggests presynaptic action of ropivacaine. .

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Os efeitos dos anestésicos locais na junção neuromuscular e sua influência no bloqueio produzido por bloqueadores neuromusculares não-despolarizantes é ainda alvo de pouca investigação, no entanto esta interação tem sido descrita em trabalhos experimentais e em humanos. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar in vitro, a interação da ropivacaína com o pancurônio, a influência na transmissão e bloqueio neuromuscular e a efetividade da neostigmina e 4-aminopiridina na reversão do bloqueio. MÉTODO: Ratos foram distribuídos em grupos (n = 5) de acordo com o fármaco estudado: ropivacaína (5 µg mL-1); pancurônio (2 µg mL-1); ropivacaína + pancurônio. A neostigmina e a 4-aminopiridina foram usadas nas concentrações de 2 µg mL-1 e 20 µg.mL-1, respectivamente. Avaliou-se: 1) efeitos da ropivacaína sobre o potencial de membrana e potenciais de placa terminal em miniatura; 2) a amplitude das respostas do diafragma antes e 60 minutos após a adição da ropivacaína; o grau de bloqueio neuromuscular com o pancurônio e com a associação pancurônio - ropivacaína; 3) a efetividade da neostigmina e 4-aminopiridina na reversão do bloqueio neuromuscular. RESULTADOS: A ropivacaína não alterou a amplitude das respostas musculares, os potenciais de membrana, mas diminuiu a frequência e a amplitude dos potenciais de placa terminal em miniatura. O bloqueio produzido pelo pancurônio foi potencializado pela ropivacaína, e parcial e totalmente revertido pela neostigmina e 4-aminopiridina, respectivamente. CONCLUSÕES: A ropivacaína potencializou o bloqueio neuromuscular produzido pelo pancurônio. O antagonismo completo com a 4-aminopiridina sugere ação pré-sináptica da ropivacaína. .

JUSTIFICACIÓN Y OBJETIVOS: Los efectos de los anestésicos locales en la unión neuromuscular y su influencia en el bloqueo producido por bloqueantes neuromusculares no-despolarizantes todavía son poco investigados, sin embargo, esta interacción ha sido descrita en trabajos experimentales y en seres humanos. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar in vitro la interacción de la ropivacaína con el pancuronio, la influencia en la transmisión y bloqueo neuromuscular y la efectividad de la neostigmina y 4-aminopiridina en la reversión del bloqueo. MÉTODO: Unos ratones fueron distribuidos en grupos (n = 5) de acuerdo con el fármaco estudiado: ropivacaína (5 µg/ml-1); pancuronio (2 µg/ml-1); ropivacaína + pancuronio. La neostigmina y la 4-aminopiridina fueron usadas en concentraciones de 2 µg/ml-1 y 20 µg/ml-1, respectivamente. Evaluamos: 1) efectos de la ropivacaína sobre el potencial de membrana y potenciales de placa terminal en miniatura; 2) la amplitud de las respuestas del diafragma antes y 60 min después de la adición de la ropivacaína; el grado de bloqueo neuromuscular con el pancuronio y con la asociación pancuronio-ropivacaína; 3) la efectividad de la neostigmina y 4-aminopiridina en la reversión del bloqueo neuromuscular. RESULTADOS: La ropivacaína no alteró la amplitud de las respuestas musculares, los potenciales de membrana, pero disminuyó la frecuencia y la amplitud de los potenciales de placa terminal en miniatura. El bloqueo producido por el pancuronio fue potenciado por la ropivacaína, y parcial y totalmente revertido por la neostigmina y 4-aminopiridina, respectivamente. CONCLUSIONES: La ropivacaína potenció el bloqueo neuromuscular producido por el pancuronio. El antagonismo completo con la 4-aminopiridina muestra una acción presináptica de la ropivacaína. .

SUGAMADEX: novos horizontes para a reversão do bloqueio neuromuscular / SUGAMMADEX: new horizons for the reversal of neuromuscular blockade

O sugamadex é uma droga nova e revolucionária desenvolvida como antagonista seletivo dos agentes bloqueadores neuromusculares (ABNM) esteroides (rocurônio > vecurônio ¼ pancurônio). O medicamento é uma y-ciclodextrina modificada e hidrossolúvel que forma um composto estável com o ABNM na razão de 1:1. Ele se liga ao ABNM livre no plasma, criando um gradiente de concentração que desloca o ABNM dos receptores nicotínicos na junção neuromuscular, levando à reversão completa e duradoura do BNM. O sugamadex não se liga às proteínas ou a qualquer outro receptor no organismo, o que lhe confere ótimo perfil de tolerância. O sugamadex pode ser usado na reversão do BNM profundo, promovendo recuperação mais rápida em relação à succinilcolina. Seu emprego pode diminuir a necessidade de monitorização do BNM, a incidência de bloqueio residual e ainda evitar os efeitos adversos causados pelos anticolinesterásicos e anticolinérgicos. Entretanto, também há limitações em relação à utilização 00 sugamadex. Ele impede o uso dos AB- NMs esteroides durante 24 horas, caso seja necessário novo BNM, e pode aumentar o risco do emprego desnecessário e indiscriminado dos ABNMs. Além disso, faltam dados da sua utilização em alguns grupos populacionais e de seu uso em larga escala. Por fim, deve-se considerar também o fator econômico, visto que se trata de uma droga nova e de valor ainda elevado no mercado...

Sugammadex is a novel and unique compaund designed as a selective antaganist ot steroidal neuromuscular blaeking agents (NMBA) (rocuronium>vecuronium¼pancuronium). The drug is a modified water-saluble y-cyclodextrin that forms a stable complex at a 1:1 ratio with the NMBA. It combines with the NMBA creating a concentration gradient favoring the movement ot the NMBA from the nicotine receptors ot the neuromuscular junction leading to the complete and lasting reversal af the neuromuscular blockade (NMB). Sugamadex does not bind to plasma proteins or any other receptors system in the body what provides him a great tolerance profile. Sugamadex can be used in the reversal af deep neuromuscular blockade with a faster recovery time in relation to succinylcholine. Its use can diminish the necessity af monitoring af the NMB, the incidence ot residual blockade and still prevent the adverse effects caused by the antiecholinesterase and anticholinergic drugs. However, there are limitatians regarding the use af Sugammadex. It hinders the use ot the steroidal NMBA during 24 hours if a new NMB must be restablished and it can increase the risk ot unnecessary and indiscriminate use af the NMBA. Mareaver, there is a laek ot data regarding the its use in some population groups and in large scale. Final/y, the economic factor must be also considered, since it is a new drug with a still raised value in market...

Was a hypertensive crisis in a patient with pheochromocytoma caused by rocuronium?: A case report / 대한마취과학회지

Pheochromocytoma is an uncommon tumor that originates in the adrenal medulla or in other paraganglia of the sympathetic nervous system. If a hypertensive crisis occurs during general anesthesia in incidental or untreated pheochromocytoma, it is a life-threatening event with a mortality rate of about 80%. Anesthetic drugs such as pancuronium, atracurium, and metoclopromide can exacerbate the potentially lethal cardiovascular effects of catecholamines. We report a case of a patient with pheochromocytoma who display abrupt increases in systolic arterial pressure and plasma norepinephrine following rocuronium administration. This case indicates the possible involvement of elevated sympathetic nervous system to a catecholamine crisis triggered by rocuronium in pheochromocytoma.

Anestesia inalatória ou anestesia balanceada em suínos / Inhalation anesthesia or balanced anesthesia in swine

Introdução: O suíno é utilizado como modelo animal em cirurgias experimentais. Objetivos: Visando determinar possíveis alterações nos parâmetros fisiológicos, determinados pela anestesia inalatória e pela anestesia balanceada em pacientes submetidos a toracoscopia, foram utilizados 14 animais entre 15 e 20 Kg, divididos em grupo I (anestesia inalatória) e grupo II (anestesia balanceada). Métodos: Todos os suínos receberam como medicação pré-anestésica, atropina e midazolam. No grupo I (anestesia inalatória), a anestesia geral foi induzida com tiopental sódico e a manutenção realizada com oxigênio em fluxo constante e isoflurano. No grupo II (anestesia balanceada), a anestesia foi induzida por uma associação de fentanil e midazolan, seguidos de tiopental sódico e pancurônio, e submetidos à ventilação mecânica. Além do anestésico inalatório esse grupo recebeu a administração contínua de fentanil e pancurônio a cada 20 minutos. Para comparar os grupos, as variáveis cardiocirculatórias, respiratórias e temperatura foram mensuradas. Resultados: A PaO2 do grupo II, em T0 apresentou uma redução significativa quando comparada ao grupo I, de 415,43 ± 47,35 para 332,06 ± 55,81 mmHg, que pode ser causada pela apnéia após o uso do pancurônio. A PaCO2 do grupo II apresentou uma redução significativa em todos os tempos. Os valores médios dos 04 tempos em mmHg foram no grupo I de 35,33 ± 8,67 e do grupo II de 24,20 ± 10,98, justificada pelo menor metabolismo e menor produção de CO2 com o uso do pancurônio associado aos efeitos da ventilação artificial. Conclusão: O dado sugeri que o uso de bloqueadores neuromusculares associado à ventilação artificial pode reduzir a PaCO2 em cirurgias torácicas em suínos.

Background: Swine have been used as animal models in experimental surgeries. In order to determine possible alterations in the physiological parameters caused by inhalation anesthesia and balanced anesthesia in swine undergoing lateral thoracoscopy, 14 animals weighing 15 to 20 kg were used. The animals were divided into two groups, group I (inhalation anesthesia) and group II (balanced anesthesia). Methods: Both groups received preanesthetic medication (atropine sulphate and midazolam). In group I, anesthesia was induced by the administration of thiopental sodium. Anesthesia was maintained by administering oxygen and isoflurane. In group II, anesthesia was induced by an association between fentanyl and midazolam, followed by thiopental sodium and pancuronium. Then the animals were mechanically ventilated. Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane and continuous administration of fentanyl and pancuronium every 20 minutes. Cardiocirculatory variables, respiratory and body temperature were measured every 15 minutes during 60 minutes of anesthesia. Results: PaO2 (in mmHg) of group II at T0 presented a significant reduction from 415.43 ± 47.35 to 332.06 ± 55.81, which may be explained by the occurrence of apnea caused by the use of pancuronium. PaCO2 of group II presented a significant reduction at all times measured. Mean values (in mmHg) of the four times in group I and group II were 35.33 ± 8.67 and 24.20 ± 10.98, respectively, which may be explained by reduced muscle metabolism and decreased CO2 production due to the useof pancuronium associated with the effect of artificial ventilation. Conclusion: We concluded that the use of neuromuscular blockers associated with artificial ventilation may reduce the concentrations of PaCO2 in thoracic surgeries in swine.

Neuromuscular blockade in cardiac surgery: an update for clinicians.

There have been great advancements in cardiac surgery over the last two decades; the widespread use of off-pump aortocoronary bypass surgery, minimally invasive cardiac surgery, and robotic surgery have also changed the face of cardiac anaesthesia. The concept of "Fast-track anaesthesia" demands the use of nondepolarising neuromuscular blocking drugs with short duration of action, combining the ability to provide (if necessary) sufficiently profound neuromuscular blockade during surgery and immediate re-establishment of normal neuromuscular transmission at the end of surgery. Postoperative residual muscle paralysis is one of the major hurdles for immediate or early extubation after cardiac surgery. Nondepolarising neuromuscular blocking drugs for cardiac surgery should therefore be easy to titrate, of rapid onset and short duration of action with a pathway of elimination independent from hepatic or renal dysfunction, and should equally not affect haemodynamic stability. The difference between repetitive bolus application and continuous infusion is outlined in this review, with the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic characteristics of vecuronium, pancuronium, rocuronium, and cisatracurium. Kinemyography and acceleromyography are the most important currently used neuromuscular monitoring methods. Whereas monitoring at the adductor pollicis muscle is appropriate at the end of surgery, monitoring of the corrugator supercilii muscle better reflects neuromuscular blockade at more central, profound muscles, such as the diaphragm, larynx, or thoraco-abdominal muscles. In conclusion, cisatracurium or rocuronium is recommended for neuromuscular blockade in modern cardiac surgery.

Influence of stimulus frequency on blockade induced by pancuronium and rocuronium: study on rats phrenic nerve-diaphragm preparation

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of two stimulation frequencies on the installation of neuromuscular blockade produced by pancuronium and rocuronium on the rat diaphragm. METHODS: Diaphragms were submitted to an indirect frequency stimulation of 0.1 and 1Hz (Groups I and II, respectively). Subgroups were formed (n=5) according to the neuromuscular blocker employed (pancuronium-2µg/ml and rocuronium-4µg/ml). The twitch height depression was evaluated at 5, 15 and 30 minutes after adding the neuromuscular blocker. RESULTS: The decrease in twitch height was greater (p<0.01) with a frequency of 1Hz at all time periods studied both in preparations that are blocked with pancuronium and in those that are blocked with rocuronium. CONCLUSION: The frequency of stimulation interferes significantly with the installation of neuromuscular blockade produced by pancuronium and rocuronium, since the reduction in amplitude of the rat diaphragm response was greater for 1Hz frequencies, at all periods studied.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a influência de duas freqüências de estimulação na instalação do bloqueio neuromuscular induzido por pancurônio e rocurônio em diafragma de ratos. MÉTODOS: Os diafragmas foram submetidos a uma freqüência de estimulação indireta de 0.1 e 1Hz (Grupos I e II, respectivamente). Os animais foram divididos em subgrupos (n=5) de acordo com o bloqueador neuromuscular a ser utilizado (pancurônio-2µg/mL e rocurônio-4µg/mL). A amplitude das respostas musculares foi avaliada 5, 15 e 30 minutos após a adição do bloqueador neuromuscular à preparação. RESULTS: A redução na intensidade da contração foi maior (p<0.01) com a freqüência de 1Hz em todos os tempos avaliados para as preparações contendo pancurônio e rocurônio CONCLUSION: A freqüência de estímulo interfere significativamente na instalação do bloquio neuromuscular produzido por pancurônio e rocurônio, uma vez que a redução na amplitude da resposta do diafragma foi maior para a freqüência de 1Hz em todos os períodos estudados.

[ comparison of priming with pancrunium and atracurium in the speed of providing adequate neuromuscular blockade for tracheal intubating]

Neuromuscular relaxants are one group of the important drugs in providing good condition for tracheal intubation and operation. Rapid intubation is needed in most situations. Also, most of non- depolarizing relaxants almost have long onset time. We compared the priming with pancrunium and atracurium in providing good and rapid relaxation for tracheal intubation. In this prospective study, 65 patients with ASA class I, II were randomized into two groups. Group A received pancrunium and group B received atracurium. Primimg dose was injected as 20% of total dose of relaxant. Twitching response was measured with peripheral nerve stimulator. Intubation was done when% 80 of the twitching response disappeared. The time of total disappearance of twitching response was also recorded. The mean time for the injection of the first dose of relaxant until the time of intubation was 94.47 seconds in group A and 142.9 seconds in group B, which were significantly different [P<0/01]. If intubation until the time of twitch response is detained, the time gap of group A will again be less than group B [P<0/01]. In priming technique, the time of tracheal intubation with pancrunium is significantly less than atracurium. So, considering the patient's condition and the need for rapid relaxation, pancrunium could be is a better relaxant than atracurium

Neuromuscular Block and Reversal

The Griffith and Johnson's report of the successful use of curare in 1942 brought a revolution in anesthetic care. The only depolarizing agent still in use is succinylcholine due to its rapid onset of action and rapid recovery. However, its use is limited by serious side effects (hyperkalemia, malignant hyperthermia, arrhythmia, etc). New non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents have been studied to replace succinylcholine, which are still at a preclinical level. Rocuronium is an aminosteroid compound and has an intermediate duration of action, but the onset is shorter. A new method of reversing neuromuscular blockade has been advocated by the introduction of a cyclodextrin, sugammadex (Org 25969), which is still at the investigational stage in humans. It has a high affinity for rocuronium, with which it forms a complex. Sugammadex has a lower affinity for other steroidal neuromuscular blocking agents such as vecuronium and pancuronium, and does not bind benzylisoquinoline-type neuromuscular blocking agents. The ability to produce a rapid return of twitch height even at deep levels of paralysis and the lack of side effects make this compound a promising new agent for anesthesia.

Incidencia de bloqueo neuromuscular residual al ingreso en la unidad de recuperación postanestésica / Incidence of residual neuromuscular block when entering post-anesthesia recovery unit

Introducción: Se denomina bloqueo neuromuscular residual a la condición clínica determinada por la persistencia de los efectos farmacológicos de los bloqueantes neuromusculares no despolarizantes. El objetivo de este estudio fue cuantificar la incidencia de bloqueo neuromuscular residual al ingreso en la unidad de recuperación postanestésica (URPA) tras la administración de atracurio o pancuronio durante el acto anestésico. Pacientes y métodos: Diseño prospectivo observacional, con un muestreo no probabilístico, consecutivo intencional. Se definió bloqueo neuromuscular residual como la presencia de una relación T4/T1 < 0.9 medida en el aductor del pulgar por acelerometría (TOF-GUARD-Organon Teknika). Se estudiaron 140 pacientes sometidos a anestesia general para cirugía programada que habían recibido como BNMND atracurio (n = 125) o pancuronio (n = 15). Resultados: Considerando la definición tradicional (T4/T1 < 0.7), el 13 por ciento de los pacientes (18 de 140) presentó bloqueo neuromuscular residual. Considerando la definición actual (T4/T1 < 0,9), el 49 por ciento de los pacientes (69/140) presentó bloqueo neuromuscular residual. Para ambas definiciones, la incidencia de bloqueo neuromuscular residual al ingreso en la URPA fue significativamente mayor para el pancuronio (53 y 93 por ciento) que para el atracurio (8 y 44 por ciento), respectivamente (p < 0.00005). Se había administrado en quirófano antiacetilcolinesterásicos al 47 por ciento del total de los pacientes observados (66 de 140): 42 por ciento de los pacientes del grupo atracurio (53 de 125) y 87 por ciento del grupo pancuronio (13 de 15). De los 74 pacientes que no recibieron antiacetilcolinesterásicos, 34 (46 por ciento del subgrupo) presentaron bloqueo neuromuscular residual, en tanto que entre los 66 pacientes que sí recibieron la reversión del bloqueo neuromuscular, 35 (53 por ciento del subgrupo) también presentaron bloqueo neuromuscular residual. Estos niveles de incidencia entre los que

Neuroparalysis and ventilatory support in severe tetanus.

In severe form of tetanus, even with maximum dose of muscle relaxants, spasms and apnoeic spells may persist and that may be life-threatening. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of neuroparalysing the patients and then providing ventilatory support in bringing about their recovery. Forty-nine adult patients of severe tetanus (Ablett's grade IIIA--6 patients and Ablett's grade IIIB--43 patients) were studied during the period from April, 1993 to February, 1996. Mean period of onset ie, period from trismus to first spasm, in these patients was 24 hours. Patients were neuroparalysed with a bolus dose of 2-4 mg of pancuronium followed by a continuous infusion of 1-2 mg/hour and simultaneously supported with mechanical ventilation until spasms subsided. Fourteen patients (28.6%) survived and rest died. Mean duration of ventilatory support on survived patients was 14.4 days. The commonest complication encountered during ventilatory support was respiratory tract infection observed in 36 patients (73.5%). Commonest cause of death was autonomic imbalance encountered in 15 patients (30.6%). Treatment of choice in severe tetanus should be neuroparalytic ventilatory support. With use of new generation ventilators and better intensive care facility, death in severe tetanus is likely to be very less.

Prolonged neuromuscular blockade; after emergency cesarean section

We are presenting a case of prolonged neuromuscular blockade after emergency cesarean section. A 34 years old, young lady with no previous history of any systemic illness including neuromuscular disorder reported in the operation theatre for cesarean section. She was offered standard protocol for general anaesthesia using thiopentone sodium i/v for induction, suxamethonium i/v for intubation, and pancuronium bromide i/v for intra-operative relaxation. Intra-operative analgesia was obtained with nalbuphine i/v [after delivery of child]. Ampicillin and gentamicin i/v were used as prophylactic antibiotics, The patient failed to regain spontaneous breathing effort after a lapse of two hours since the last dose of pancuronium bromide. Laboratory investigations including complete blood picture, urea, creatinine, electrolytes [calcium, sodium, potassium] revealed anemia and severe hypocalcemia. She was given fresh whole blood and calcium gluconate intravenously, in addition to other supportive measures like ven tilatory support using SIMV mode of ventilation with 40% 02. Patient started regaining breathing effort after about 12 hours and was extubated after about 15 hours of artificial ventilation with little residual neuromuscular blocking effect. She was kept in the ICU for the next 24 hours for observation and was discharged from ICU the next day with full recovery. Conclusion Patient probably suffered from the interaction between gentamicin and pancuronium bromide, that was further potentiated by hypocalcemia and anaemia. She was given supportive care along with replacement of calcium, and anaemia was corrected by fresh whole blood transfusion. Patient recovered uneventfully and was discharged from ICU the next day

Comienzo bifásico de acción de la succinilcolina / Biphasic onset of succinylcholine's action

Introducción: Anteriormente hemos descrito y comprobado los cambios de velocidad durante la instalación del bloqueo neuromuscular producido por el rocuronio. El propósito de la presente investigación es estudiar el período de comienzo de acción de la succinilcolina utilizando los índices diseñados en aquella oportunidad y basados en la relación entre el bloqueo fraccionado y el tiempo de instalación, que permiten determinar su velocidad y rapidez. Material y métodos: Después de su consentimiento, dos grupos iguales de pacientes (n = 20 c/u) sin contraindicación aparente para su empleo fueron intubados directamente con succinilcolina o precurarizados con rapacuronio. Por electromiografía se determinaron los tiempos para alcanzar un bloqueo del 80 por ciento, el efecto final y el máximo bloqueo. Utilizando los índices respectivos se calcularon la rapidez (seg/por ciento) y velocidad (por ciento/seg). Resultados: La precurarización con rapacuronio alargó el tiempo para alcanzar un bloqueo del 80 por ciento y el máximo efecto, disminuyendo este último. La velocidad y rapidez inicial fueron mayores que al final y menores en el grupo precurarizado. Conclusión: Los resultados obtenidos aplicando esta metodología indican que la succinilcolina, lo mismo que el rocuronio y el vecuronio, tiene un tiempo de comienzo bifásico con una fase inicial casi cuatro veces más rápida y veloz que la final. La precurarización con rapacuronio alarga el tiempo parcial y total de instalación del efecto de la succinilcolina; no modifica su carácter bifásico pero vuelve exageradamente lenta su fase final. Se comenta la posibilidad de hacer uso de la brevedad inicial de su acción para realizar una intubación traqueal precoz, ya que con el efecto periférico mostrado la relajación laríngea debe ser completa. Se hacen especulaciones sobre las supuestas causas responsables de esta peculiar manera de instalarse el bloqueo neuromuscular.

Extubación postoperatoria inmediata (ultra fast-track) en cirugía coronaria sin circulación extracorpórea / Immediate postoperative extubation (ultra fast-track) after coronary surgery without cardiopulmonary bypass

Antecedentes: La ventilación en el postoperatorio es una práctica rutinaria en los pacientes sometidos a cirugía de revascularización miocárdica. En los últimos años, junto con la incorporación de la cirugía de revascularización miocárdica (CRM) sin circulación extracorpórea (sin CEC), hemos adoptado como objetivo la extubación en el quirófano, es decir, al finalizar la cirugía. Objetivos: Extubación inmediata en quirófano (ultra fast-track (UFT)) utilizando anestesia general; secundariamente, analizar la curva de aprendizaje durante el período de estudio. Lugar de aplicación: Institución privada. Diseño: Estudio retrospectivo, casuístico, observacional. Población: 209 pacientes sometidos a CRM sin CEC durante el período que va de julio de 2002 a abril de 2003. Se incluyeron todos los pacientes en forma consecutiva, sin criterios de exclusión. Método: Anestesia general balanceada intravenosa e inhalatoria. Se evaluaron las características preoperatorias, las condiciones necesarias para la extubación, el número de pacientes extubados y el de no extubados, y sus causas. Los pacientes fueron divididos en dos grupos: G02 = 2002 (110 pacientes) y G03 = 2003 (99 pacientes). Resultados: De las condiciones preoperatorias, hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre G02 y G03, con mayor severidad para este último en tabaquismo (p = 0.007), clase funcional III-IV (p = 0.009) y función ventricular moderada-severa (p = 0.021). Hubo tendencia, pero sin significación estadística, también hacia G03 en cirugía no electiva, balón de contrapulsación intra aórtico, diabetes y reoperación. Se extubó el 81 por ciento de los pacientes en el quirófano, un 71 por ciento del período '02 y 92 por ciento del periodo '03. Los no extubados obedecieron a: falta de conciencia 13 (11/2), inestabilidad hemodinámica 13 (7/6), cambios eléctricos 3 (3/0), sangrado 3 (3/0), respiratorias 3 (3/0) y conversión a CEC 5 (5/0). Las complicaciones fueron: respiratorias: 4.8 por ciento, distress: 0.9 por ciento, IAM 2.9 por ciento y mortalidad 3.8 por ciento. La estadía en UTI fue de 1 día y la estadía total 5 días. Conclusión: Es posible realizar la extubación en quirófano para cirugía de revascularización miocárdica sin circulación extracorpórea utilizando anestesia general balanceada, ajustándola a la técnica de UFT. También la curva de aprendizaje ha influido favorablemente en los resultados.

Study on the acceptability of Vietnamese women using contraceptive drug Mercilon

The study was conducted at 3 provinces: Bac Ninh, Nam Dinh and Ha Tay from November 2001 to July 2002. At each province, 100 women, aged from 21 to 39years old, average blood pressure of 107/68mmHg, average weight of 47kg and average height of 154cm were selected into study. Study on acceptability of 300 Vietnamese women using contractive drug Mercilon, the results showed that: satisfying and acceptance rate is so high about 99%, the side effect was just a little and decreased gradually depending on using duration, menstrual periods are in monthly and frequently, only 1 case faced with amenorrhea, and another case experienced excessive menstruation, 4 cases give up study because of side effects. Thus, satisfying and acceptance rate in Vietnamese women is so high.

Comparación entre el bromuro de pancuronio genérico y el Pavulon®1 / Comparison between generic pancuronium bromide and Pavulon®1

Históricamente se ha planteado el conflicto sobre la eficacia y la seguridad terapéutica entre marcas genéricas y la marca original, lo cual llevó a desarrollar el siguiente estudio. Objetivos: 1) realizar ensayos fisicoquímicos de ampollas que contenían 4 mg/2ml de bromuro de pancuronio, en una marca genérica (G) y en una original (P = Pavulon®), 2) determinar la eficacia y la seguridad terapéutica de ambas drogas, y 3) comparar los resultados entre ambas marcas, tomando como patrón de referencia la marca original. Materiales y métodos: Ensayos fisicoquímicos realizados conforme la Farmacopea Británica 2001 (FB). Eficacia y seguridad terapéutica evaluada mediante un estudio prospectivo, randomizado y doble ciego en cincuenta pacientes ASA I-II a quienes se administró 2 mcg/kg de citrato de fentanilo, 5 mg/kg de tiopental sódico cinco minutos después y 0.1 mg/kg de bromuro de pancuronio. La anestesia se mantuvo con sevoflurano 2 por ciento. Se evaluó el tiempo T1 para alcanzar los valores porcentuales 95,75,25,0 y 25 de recuperación o duración clínica. Comparación: Test de Mann - Whitney, p < 0.05. Resultados: Los ensayos fisicoquímicos para el grupo genérico y el Pavulon® cumplieron con las especificaciones de la FB. En el grupo genérico, los tiempos necesarios para que T1 disminuya hasta 95 y 75 por ciento resultaron respectivamente 33.15 y 48.36 segundos; para que disminuya al 25 por ciento y 0 por ciento, 1.50 Y 2.97 minutos, y la duración clínica fue de 108.99 minutos. En el grupo Pavulon®, el tiempo requerido para T1 = 95 Y 75 por ciento fue de 24.89 y 41.54 segundos respectivamente, mientras que para llegar al 25 y 0 por ciento fueron necesarios 1.34 y 2.71 minutos; la duración clínica en este grupo fue de 111.99 minutos. Conclusiones: Los tiempos evaluados no arrojaron diferencia estadística significativa entre ambas marcas.

Efeito da administração do atracúrio sobre a recuperação do bloqueio neuromuscular induzido pelo pancurônio / Effect of atracurium on pancuronium-induced neuromuscular block recovery

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Freqüentemente em cirurgias abdominais, na fase de fechamento da parede, há necessidade de doses adicionais de bloqueador neuromuscular. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar, na vigência de recuperação parcial do bloqueio neuromuscular induzido pelo pancurônio, o efeito da administração de dose complementar de atracúrio sobre a recuperação espontânea do bloqueio neuromuscular. MÉTODO: Foram estudados 30 pacientes, divididos em dois grupos, 14 pacientes formaram o grupo pancurônio e 16 pacientes, o grupo atracúrio. A função neuromuscular foi monitorizada de forma contínua por acelerometria do músculo adutor do polegar, utilizando a seqüência de quatro estímulos (SQE), através da estimulação supramáxima do nervo ulnar. A indução da anestesia foi feita com propofol, fentanil, pancurônio 0,08 mg.kg-1 e a manutenção com N2O 60 por cento em oxigênio e isoflurano na concentração expirada de 0,5 por cento. Quando a primeira contração da seqüência de quatro estímulos (T1) recuperou 25 por cento, o grupo pancurônio recebeu pancurônio 0,025 mg.kg-1 e o grupo atracúrio, 0,20 mg.kg-1 de atracúrio. Após a dose complementar foram anotados os tempos para recuperação espontânea de T1 igual a 10 por cento, 25 por cento, 75 por cento, do índice de recuperação (IR25-75 por cento) e da relação T4/T1 igual a 0,8. RESULTADOS: Os tempos de recuperação espontânea após dose complementar de pancurônio ou atracúrio não diferiram quando avaliados pela recuperação de T1 em 10 por cento (45,00 ± 15,50 vs 49,69 ± 9,41), 25 por cento (61,64 ± 18,58 vs 64,25 ± 12,51) e 75 por cento (94,00 ± 28,52 vs 84,69 ± 16,50). O IR25-75 por cento (32,36 ± 13,76 vs 20,44 ± 9,24) e o tempo de recuperação da relação T4/T1 = 0,8 (176,86 ± 29,57 vs 141,50 ± 29,57) foram menores no grupo do atracúrio. CONCLUSÕES: Nas condições deste estudo, a complementação com atracúrio não promoveu alteração na recuperação espontânea inicial do bloqueio neuromuscular induzido pelo pancurônio e promoveu diminuição de 20 por cento no tempo de recuperação total.