Remimazolam Anesthesia for Modified Electroconvulsive Therapy Mitigates Postoperative Agitation
Shinako Shimono1, Tomoharu Shakuo2, Aya Yamamura2
1Perioperative Medicine, Division of Anesthesiology, Showa University School of Dentistry, Tokyo, JPN.
Abstract:
Postoperative complications, such as immediate postoperative blood pressure elevation, agitation, and delirium, have been associated with modified electroconvulsive therapy (mECT). Remimazolam may reduce postoperative delirium; however, there are no reports of its use in mECT. Herein, we present a case of effective convulsions and calm arousal with remimazolam in a patient with a history of postoperative agitation. The patient was a 45-year-old man who was diagnosed with severe depression and psychotic symptoms and was treated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Owing to previous episodes of agitation upon awakening, remimazolam and suxamethonium were administered, and mECT was performed under general anesthesia to ensure effective convulsions and calm awakening. Intraoperative vital signs were normal, with no signs of agitation post-treatment. Remimazolam administration for general anesthesia induction for mECT effectively induced convulsions and suppressed postoperative excitation. However, its effect on convulsions during mECT remains unclear, warranting further investigation.
Insights
Remimazolam may reduce postoperative agitation after modified electroconvulsive therapy (mECT). This case study shows effective convulsions and calm arousal with remimazolam, suggesting potential benefits for patients with a history of agitation.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Modified electroconvulsive therapy (mECT) is associated with postoperative complications like agitation and delirium.
- Remimazolam, an ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine, has shown potential in reducing postoperative delirium.
- No previous reports exist on remimazolam's use in mECT.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old male patient with severe depression and psychotic symptoms underwent mECT.
- Due to prior agitation post-awakening, remimazolam and suxamethonium were administered for anesthesia.
- The patient experienced effective convulsions and a calm awakening without agitation.
Findings:
- Remimazolam facilitated effective convulsions during mECT.
- Remimazolam administration suppressed postoperative excitation and agitation.
- Intraoperative vital signs remained stable throughout the procedure.
Implications:
- Remimazolam appears effective for anesthesia induction in mECT, promoting calm arousal.
- Further research is needed to clarify remimazolam's specific role in seizure induction during mECT.
- This case highlights a potential strategy for managing agitation in mECT patients.
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