ABSTRACT

We describe the development of intention myoclonus following severe cardiopulmonary failure in three paediatric patients. Symptoms occurred during the withdrawal of midazolam and fentanyl, which were used for prolonged sedation, and resolved spontaneously. Because the three patients had concomitant brain injury secondary to cardiopulmonary failure-related hypoxia, we propose that the combination of hypoxic brain injury and sedative withdrawal may predispose to intention myoclonus. (Critical Care and Resuscitation 2002; 4: 104-106)

Key words:

Intention myoclonus, withdrawal syndrome, cerebral hypoxia, child

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