Self-tuning PID control of Atracurium-induced muscle relaxation in surgical patients

The control of muscle relaxation using a self-tuning PID control technique is investigated. The performance of this control strategy is evaluated in a real-time simulation environment, using published pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the recently introduced competitive neuromuscular blocking agent Atracurium. The sensitivity of the control algorithm with respect to simulated intra- and interindividual variability in the dynamics is studied and the feasibility of combining bolus dose and closed-loop infusion protocols of Atracurium administration is demonstrated. A series of clinical trials were undertaken where the self-tuning PID algorithm controlled successfully the delivery of Atracurium to patients undergoing surgery.