Propensity of use of neuromuscular blocking agents among Indian anaesthesiologists: A questionnaire-based survey

Abstract

This survey aimed to understand the use of neuromuscular blockers (NMBs) with respect to neuromuscular monitoring, reversal of residual neuromuscular block, and incidence of adverse events among Indian anaesthesiologists.A 40-item questionnaire was sent to 250 anaesthesiologists across India via email and their responses were statistically analysed.The response rate was 50%. To facilitate tracheal intubation, 81.0% respondents preferred cisatracurium, 72.2% preferred atracurium, 43.7% preferred vecuronium, 58.7% preferred rocuronium, and 70.6% preferred succinylcholine. Safety and recovery time are the most important criteria for an ideal NMB. About 84% respondents expressed concerns about the adverse effects of NMBs, especially recovery of neuromuscular function (31.1%) and hemodynamic effects (26.4%). The train-of-four (TOF) ratio for residual paralysis was not checked by 57% respondents. Reversal agents were used by >2/3 respondents; however, 86.5% used them after cisatracurium was used. Concerns about adverse effects of anticholinesterase/antimuscarinic agents were expressed by 63.4% respondents, while 85% expressed the need for availability of sugammadex in India. Almost two-thirds opined that conventional nerve stimulators and quantitative TOF monitors should be available in the operating room.The survey showed that safety and recovery time are the most important parameters in selecting an NMB. Cisatracurium was the most widely used NMB for tracheal intubation because of its safety, duration of action, less anaphylactic reactions, and fewer hemodynamic fluctuations. The use of TOF for monitoring was low. While reversal agents were used by >2/3 respondents, many respondents used them after cisatracurium was used as an NMB.