Incidence of Connected Consciousness after Tracheal Intubation: A Prospective, International, Multicenter Cohort Study of the Isolated Forearm Technique
Hypothesis: To establish the incidence of isolated forearm technique responsiveness after intubation in routine practice.
Methods: International study performed at six sites on 260 patients using the Isolated Forearm Technique to determine connected consciousness after the induction of anesthesia. Patient care was determined by the individual anesthesiologists.
Results: The incidence of connected consciousness was 4.6%. Younger patients were more likely to respond while exposure to volatile anesthetic prior to intubation reduced the likelihood of responding. There were no reports of explicit recall.
Strengths: Prospective, international, multi-center, pragmatic design; independent assessment of responsiveness
Weaknesses: Low number of responders, observational
Key Point: The incidence of connected consciousness after the induction of anesthesia is significant and higher than many people assume.