Article Notes
Possibly... but with some important caveats.
“Sugammadex is likely the most exciting drug in clinical neuromuscular pharmacology since the introduction of atracurium and vecuronium in the middle 1980s.” – RD Miller (2007).
Sugammadex (Bridion®) is a remarkable drug – and the anaesthesia community has moved very quickly to embrace the potential of this first ‘selective relaxant binding agent’ (SRBA), despite it’s considerable cost.
Sugammadex offers a new and improved way of reversing aminosteroid muscle relaxation, in particular from rocuronium. The speed at which it reverses even profound neuromuscular blockade is incredible and potentially life saving. Sugammadex’s onset is 10 times faster than neostigmine and three times faster than edrophonium.
Though beyond the parlour-trick of speedy action, or the possibility of rescuing a cannot-intubate-cannot-ventilate crisis – the biggest benefit of sugammadex for our patients may be in the dramatic reduction of post-operative residual paralysis. A common problem with serious consequences that the anaesthetic community has ignored for far too long.
Daniel Jolley
Allan Palmer
Chazot et al. describe a 25 yo undergoing a Nissen fundoplication, receiving TCI propofol/remifentanil (targets of 2.3 ug/mL & 4 ng/mL respectively) along with rocuronium. The deep neuromuscular block was reversed with sugammadex 4 mg/kg and the patient awoke within 80 seconds (clinically and BIS > 90) despite TCI targets continuing. No awareness was noted.
Daniel Jolley
A very practical review of the evidence, indications and rationale for the perimortem cesarean section. Richard Parry describes the specific steps required to perform a PMCS, along with discussion of the pros and cons of different approaches. The importance of multidisciplinary training is emphasised.
Daniel Jolley
A review of all published perimortem cesarean section case reports by Vern Katz, following up his article in 1986 first recommending this procedure.
While this does not offer proof of benefit (huge survival selection bias), of the 38 cases reported, 34 neonates survived (includes multiple gestations), and of the 20 cases with reversible causes, 13 mothers were discharged from hospital.
Katz writes:
In 12 of 18 reports that documented hemodynamic status, cesarean delivery preceded return of maternal pulse and blood pressure, often in a dramatic fashion. Eight other cases noted improvement in maternal status. Importantly, in no case was there deterioration of the maternal condition with the cesarean delivery.
Daniel Jolley