Postoperative residual paralysis in patients aged over 65 years old at the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit☆

Abstract Introduction Few studies have been made on the incidence of residual paralysis from non-depolarizing relaxants in people over 65 years old; however, estimating the number of cases and treatment thereof are both important. Objective To study the incidence of residual paralysis with non-depolarizing relaxants in patients over 65 years of age and discuss treatment. Methodology Analytical observational study based on a cohort design. Results The pre-extubation residual paralysis was estimated at 23.2% and at 9.2% at patient admission to the Recovery Suite. Pharmacological reversal showed 89.4% and 100% success rates with Neostigmine and Sugammadex respectively, with similar times at T4/T1 > 0.9. Conclusions The incidence of pre-extubation residual paralysis was lower than the figure published worldwide. Pharmacological reversal therapies were typically highly effective.