Neuromuscular Monitoring, Reversal of Block and Postoperative Residual Curarization: the Situation in 2018

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the incidence of postoperative residual curarization, as defined by a train-of-four <90%, upon postanaesthesia care unit arrival. Anesthetists tend to use train-of-four monitoring in the operating theatre to interpret muscle tone. Train-of-four monitoring is a widely used term for the peripheral nerve stimulation used in neuromuscular blockade monitoring. Hypothesizing a change in our practice since 2006-2012 (Cammu G, Anesth Analg 2006; 102: 426-9 and Cammu G, Anaesth Intensive Care 2012; 40: 999-1006), residual neuromuscular block as well as the use of intraoperative neuromuscular transmission monitoring and reversal of neuromuscular blocking agents will again be prospectively evaluated in 2018. The present study aims to compare these three periods (2006-2012-2018) in terms of management of neuromuscular block in the operating room and to look for a relationship with the incidence of postoperative residual curarization.