Generalised predictive control (GPC) in the operating theatre

The development and evaluation of generalised predictive control (GPC) for on-line administration of muscle-relaxant drugs in the operating theatre is described. The necessary software and hardware environment was established using a SUN workstation and then a PC-based controller linked to an analogue patient simulator. The validated system was then transferred into the operating theatre for a series of clinical evaluation trials. Successful trials were performed at two sites, with decreasing involvement of the design engineers. Excellent regulation has been achieved, with a much reduced drug consumption compared with manual methods of drug administration. The GPC algorithm displayed good robustness properties against heavy electrical interference from disturbances such as surgical diathermy.