Generalised predictive control applied to muscle relaxant anaeshesia

In recent years a number of control techniques have been applied to provide automated online drug infusion of muscle relaxants during patient surgery in operating theatres. A newly developed algorithm falling into the category of self-tuners known as the generalised predictive control algorithm (GPC) is considered to be the most robust technique yet to exist. The authors report developments in the use of this approach for online administration of Atracurium, a modern fast acting relaxant drug. A detailed simulation study using a mathematical model of this drug (elicited and evaluated during earlier research) was conducted followed by a series of clinical trials, results of which are presented, analysed, and discussed