Efficacy of 3ED95 Vs 6ED95 Dose of Cisatracurium with Magnesium Sulphate for Endotracheal Intubation in Patients Undergoing General Anaesthesia: A Randomised Double-Blinded Study

Abstract

Background and aim:
                  Cisatracurium is an effective non-depolarising neuromuscular blocker, but has a relatively slow onset. Magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) may potentiate its effect and improve intubating conditions. The study aimed to determine the optimal dose of cisatracurium for endotracheal intubation when used with MgSO4.
Methods: 
                  In this randomised controlled study, 70 patients undergoing elective surgeries under general anaesthesia were randomly allocated into two groups: Group A (cisatracurium 3ED95 + MgSO4) and Group B (cisatracurium 6ED95 + MgSO4). The primary outcome was the onset time of neuromuscular blockade. The secondary outcomes included the ease of intubation, duration of action of intubating dose, total dose of Cisatracurium used, haemodynamic changes and complications. The Chi‑square test was applied for categorical data, and a P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results:
                The demographic data were comparable between the groups. Mean onset time for neuromuscular blockade was slightly longer in Group A (116.8 ± 4.8 sec) than in Group B (114.7 ± 5.1 sec), but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.081). Mehta’s Gradation of Ease of Intubation scores were identical between groups (P = 1.000). The time to first maintenance dose, haemodynamic variables, and complications did not differ significantly. Serum magnesium levels remained comparable at all measured intervals.
 Conclusion: 
The 3ED95 dose of cisatracurium combined with MgSO4 provides similar neuromuscular blockade and intubating conditions comparable to those achieved with a 6ED₉₅ dose, with stable haemodynamics in both groups.