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Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Manual Muscle Testing: A Method of Measuring Extremity Muscle Strength Applied to Critically Ill Patients
Published on: April 12, 2011
[Muscle relaxants in the ICU]
1Klinik für Anaesthesiologie, Klinikum rechts der Isar der Technischen Universität München. g.schneider@lrz.tumuenchen.de
Abstract:
Neuromuscular blockade in ICU patients has become less popular, in particular since non-invasive methods of artificial respiration have been introduced. Succinylcholine has numerous side effects. Due to its short onset, Rocuronium may be an alternative. The advantage of Atracurium and Cis-Atracurium is a largely organ-independent metabolism. In ICU patients, neuromuscular monitoring should be applied. Prolonged action and critical illness neuropathy are the most prominent side effects of neuromuscular blockade.
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