SciELO - Scientific Electronic Library Online

 
vol.39 issue3Regional Spinal Anesthesia for C-section and Postpartum Pomeroy. Administering a Local Anesthetic at a <60 or &gt;60 Seconds Injection RateNonobstetric Surgery During Pregnancy author indexsubject indexarticles search
Home Pagealphabetic serial listing  

Services on Demand

Journal

Article

Indicators

Related links

  • On index processCited by Google
  • Have no similar articlesSimilars in SciELO
  • On index processSimilars in Google

Share


Colombian Journal of Anestesiology

Print version ISSN 0120-3347

Abstract

RIVERA DIAZ, Roberto Carlo  and  RIVERA DIAZ, Johan Sebastián. Neuromuscular Blocking Agents: an Argument for Their Adequate Use. Rev. colomb. anestesiol. [online]. 2011, vol.39, n.3, pp.352-357. ISSN 0120-3347.  https://doi.org/10.5554/rca.v39i3.247.

Introduction. The debate regarding the use of muscle relaxants is still ongoing, with arguments against such as their adverse effects and published risks, and arguments in favor such as the need to ensure rapid and adequate intubation in emergency cases, the benefit of an easy surgical field for the surgeon, and other reported benefits. Objective. To review aspects associated with the adequate use of neuromuscular blocking agents in anesthesia. Materials and methods. Narrative review of the scientific literature available on the subject that focused on indications, risks, benefits and monitoring. Results. The absolute indication of muscle relaxants is rapid-sequence intubation, but there are other situations where they are recommended: Intubation in elective surgery, certain types of special surgical procedures and situations (ARDS, electroconvulsive therapy, intra-abdominal hypertension, intracranial hypertension), and they may be avoided in many general anesthesia cases. Most important is to be aware of their indications, risks and adequate use. Conclusion. In conclusion, there are situations where the use of muscle relaxants may be avoided, but there are also instances were they are a requirement and it is in those cases where they are recommended. Therefore, if they are to be used, they must be the ideal choice for the individual patient at the right time and the right dose, and always under appropriate monitoring.

Keywords : Neuromuscular blocking agents; intubation; medical emergencies; risk.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in English | Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )