Postoperative awake paralysis in the intensive care unit after cardiac surgery due to residual neuromuscular blockade: a case report and prospective observational study

Conclusion Postoperative residual paralysis after fast-track cardiac surgery was common in our institution and likely contributed to the reported case of postoperative awake paralysis. We suggest that an NMB not be administered after intubation in fast-track patients. If given, however, it must be well communicated to the ICU team upon ICU admission. We further recommend routine assessment of neuromuscular function before sedation is weaned prior to extubation.
Source: Canadian Journal of Anesthesia - Category: Anesthesiology Source Type: research