Postoperative Residual Neuromuscular Block and Passive Smoke Exposure in Pediatric Dental Patients

Postoperative residual neuromuscular block (PRNB) may persist despite apparent clinical recovery from neuromuscular blockade and may increase the risk of postoperative respiratory complications. Quantitative neuromuscular monitoring is therefore important for identifying incomplete neuromuscular recovery. This prospective, single-center observational cohort study aims to determine the incidence of PRNB in pediatric patients undergoing dental procedures under general anesthesia with rocuronium and to evaluate the association between passive smoke exposure and PRNB. Children aged 2-12 years will undergo quantitative neuromuscular assessment using the TOF-Watch SX after clinical extubation and admission to the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). PRNB will be defined as a train-of-four (TOF) ratio \<0.9. The incidence of PRNB will be determined, and its association with passive smoke exposure and perioperative clinical variables will be evaluated.