Recovery of neuromuscular function after infusion or intermittent bolus doses of atracurium or vecuronium

Abstract

Neuromuscular block and postoperative recovery of grip strength and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were compared in patients receiving atracurium or vecuronium administered by continuous infusion or intermittent bolus doses. The same total dose of atracurium (0.92-0.98 mg kg-1) or vecuronium (0.16-0.18 mg kg-1) was given by both methods. A similar degree of neuromuscular block was attained in all groups. A control group receiving no neuromuscular blocking drugs was also studied. Grip strength and PEF were reduced significantly in all groups (< 80% of preoperative value) 15 min after operation. This was most marked following infusion of vecuronium (< 50%). Grip strength recovered in all groups in 30-60 min. PEF was still significantly less than control value at 90 min in all groups receiving neuromuscular blocking drugs. © 1989 Copyright: 1989 British Journal of Anaesthesia.