This underpowered study suggests that there may be a mortality benefit in early neuromuscular blockade in severe ARDS.
Level of evidence: 1− (RCT high risk of bias).
References
1.
LightRWBengfortJLGeorgeRB. The adult respiratory distress syndrome and pancuronium bromide. Anesth Analg1975;54: 219–23.
2.
GainnierMRochAForelJM. Effect of neuromuscular blocking agents on gas exchange in patients presenting with acute respiratory distress syndrome. Crit Care Med2004;32: 113–19.
3.
ForelJMRochAMarinV. Neuromuscular blocking agents decrease inflammatory response in patients presenting with acute respiratory distress syndrome. Crit Care Med2006;34: 2749–57.
4.
ArroligaACThompsonBTAncukiewiczM. for the ARDS network. Use of sedatives, opioids and neuromuscular blocking agents in patients with acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndromeCrit Care Med2008; 96: 1083–88.