The development of neuromuscular dysfunction (NMD) during critical illness is increasingly
recognized as a cause of failure to wean from mechanical ventilation and is associated with
significant morbidity and mortality. At times, it is difficult to identify the presence of NMD and
distinguish the etiology of the weakness in patients with critical illness, but subtle clinical
findings and bedside electrophysiologic testing are helpful in establishing the diagnosis.
This article describes the clinical spectrum of acquired neuromuscular weakness in the …