[Rocuronium bromide as component of general anaesthesia in patients with traumatic cerebral compression]

Area of Science:

• Neuroanesthesiology
• Critical Care Medicine
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Rapid sequence tracheal intubation is critical for patients with severe traumatic brain injury (GCS<8).
• The optimal myorelaxation agent for intubation in neurosurgical patients remains under-investigated.
• Maintaining stable cerebral hemodynamics is paramount in managing traumatic brain compression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of succinylcholine and rocuronium bromide on cerebral circulation, intracranial pressure, and cerebral perfusion pressure during rapid sequence intubation.
• To evaluate the suitability of rocuronium bromide as a primary agent for tracheal intubation in patients with severe cerebral trauma.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 32 patients with severe cerebral trauma (GCS<8).
• Assessment of cerebral circulation, intracranial pressure (ICP), cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), and systemic hemodynamics.
• Administration of rocuronium bromide at a dose of 0.6 mg/kg for tracheal intubation.

Main Results:

• Rocuronium bromide (0.6 mg/kg) facilitated tracheal intubation within 40-60 seconds.
• No significant adverse effects on cerebral circulation, ICP, or CPP were observed with rocuronium bromide.
• Systemic hemodynamics remained stable during the intubation procedure.

Conclusions:

• Rocuronium bromide is a safe and effective myorelaxant for rapid sequence tracheal intubation in patients with traumatic cerebral compression.
• It provides adequate intubating conditions without compromising critical neuro-hemodynamic parameters.
• Rocuronium bromide is a preferred agent for general anesthesia in this patient population.