Effect of Vecuronium in different age group

Background: Muscle relaxants are adjuncts to good anesthesia. Neonates and infants are having less developed neuromuscular junction, larger distribution volume and poor hepatic and renal function. The aim of the present study was to define dose of Vecuronium in neonates and infants in comparison of other age groups, to observe cardiovascular effect of Vecuronium, to study adequacy of intubating condition and, Adequacy of intra-operative muscle relaxation, To observe completeness of recovery after reversal. Materials and methods: 100% patients belonging to physical status of A.S.A Group I and II for operative procedures from both routine and emergency surgeries were selected randomly for study to observe clinical Comparison of Vecuronium bromide in different age groups. Patients were divided into 4 groups each consists of 25 Patients: Group I - Patients of 0-1 year of Age, Group II - Patients of 1-5 year of Age, Group III - Patients of 6-15 year of Age, Group IV - Patients of 16-50 year of Age. Results: Mean pulse rate before induction in Group I patient was 143.92/min., it increased to 151.92 /min. after intubation and then maintained throughout the course of anesthesia between 143.68 to 146.28 / min. which was not significant. The mean arterial pressure in Group I patient was maintained between 74.32 mm of Hg, 77.24 mm of Hg in Group II from 84.21 of pre-induction value – small changes were there and MAP maintained between 79.9 to 89.3 mm of Hg. Pre-induction MAP in Group III was 87.95 mm of Hg, it maintained between 89.29 to 92.66 mm of Hg throughout and in Group IV pre-induction value of MAP was 94.62, where it was maintained between 91.78 – 98.5 mm of Hg. So, there was no any pulse rate or blood pressure changes reflecting cardiovascular stability of Vecuronium. Conclusion: Vecuronium is an excellent non-depolarizing muscle relaxant which is an intermediate duration of action in adult but of longer duration in neonates and infants (less than 1 year). It is having advantage of – Cardiostability, Lack of Ganglion blocking action, Lack of histamine release, Non cumulative property, Excellent conditions for intubation, Excellent muscle relaxation, Complete recovery without any complication.