Impact of Sugammadex vs. Neostigmine Reversal on Post-Operative Recovery and Complications

Sugammadex and neostigmine are NMBD reversal agents. Neostigmine - an anticholinesterase is given to reverse NMBD; however reversal of NMBD with neostigmine may be associated with residual neuromuscular blockade in up to 64% patients postoperatively in the post anesthesia care unit. Even mild degrees of residual neuromuscular blockade can have serious clinical consequences in the postoperative period. The severity of OSA often worsens after surgery and patients with OSA are at increased risk for early respiratory complications after extubating and in the PACU. Morbid obesity is associated with critical respiratory complications in patients with OSA.

Sugammadex is a newer NMBD reversal agent that rapidly and completely reverses rocuronium. It is a modified gamma cyclodextrin that forms a complex with the neuromuscular blocking agent rocuronium. It reduces the amount of neuromuscular blocking agent available to bind to nicotinic cholinergic receptors in the neuromuscular junction. It has been shown to more rapidly reverse residual neuromuscular blockade than neostigmine in obese patients without obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

This study will evaluate whether reversal of NMBD with sugammadex is associated with faster recovery than neostigmine resulting in faster discharge from the operating room (OR) in obese patients with OSA undergoing bariatric surgery. Half of the patients in the study will receive sugammadex and other half of the patients will receive neostigmine