Evaluation of the effects of rocuronium bromide on haemodynamics and left ventricular function in patients undergoing abdominal aortic surgery.

In an open study of 26 patients undergoing abdominal aortic surgery, the effects of rocuronium 0.6 mg kg-1 (eight patients) and 0.9 mg kg-1 (nine patients) were compared with those of pancuronium 0.085 mg kg-1 (eight patients) on haemodynamic parameters and transoesophageal echocardiography. The anaesthetic technique was based on a benzodiazepine and low dose fentanyl (6 micrograms kg-1). Pancuronium was associated with a significant increase in mean arterial pressure, end-diastolic area and heart rate, none of which were seen after rocuronium at either dose level.