The use of neuromuscular blockers to facilitate mechanical ventilation in severe asthma

Abstract

Ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation in patients with severe asthma can be challenging. Although no randomized trials have been performed, neuromuscular blockade is a useful adjunct in the care of severe life-threatening asthma with respiratory failure. Neuromuscular blockers can prevent respiratory dysynchrony, help lower peak pressures and allow longer expiratory times to reduce dynamic hyperinflation and its attendant risk of barotraumas and pneumothorax. Patients with severe life-threatening asthma and respiratory failure are often young, male and can be difficult to sedate.