Half-dose sugammadex with neostigmine versus full-dose sugammadex for reversal of rocuronium in laparoscopic bariatric surgery

Abstract Background Sugammadex reverses rocuronium more effective than neostigmine during deeper neuromuscular blockade levels. Relying upon the high cost of sugammadex we hypothesized that combined neostigmine with half-dose sugammadex (1.2 mg/kg) would be as effective as the full dose (2.4 mg/kg IBW) in reversing rocuronium-induced deep neuromuscular block in obese patients. A multimodal approach would be an effective cost saving strategy, while preserving the advantages of this novel agent. Patient and methods A prospective randomized study done on 50 morbid obese patients undergoing elective laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy operation. Patients were allocated into two groups each of 25. Group NS received sugammadex 1.2 mg/kg and neostigmine 50 μg/kg with atropine 20 μg/kg. Group S received sugammadex 2.4 mg/kg and 10 mL of normal saline. Primary outcome Interval between administration of reversal and reaching TOF of 90%. Secondary outcomes Total dose of rocuronium (mg), duration between last dose rocuronium and reverse, number of patients reached TOF of 90% within 5 min, duration between IV reversal and extubation, and the number of patients with residual neuromuscular blockade. Results Number of patients who reached TOF 90% within 5 min, the interval between reversal and 90% TOF, the interval between reversal and extubation were comparable between the study groups. Conclusion As regards neuromuscular blocker reversal in obese patients, the neostigmine 50 μg/kg plus sugammadex half dose (1.2 mg/kg) is as effective as full-dose sugammadex (2.4 mg/kg) alone. Trial registration Institutional Research Board: (IRB code number): MS/17.12.195 on 16 January 2018.