[Influence of different preinjections on unfavourable side-effects of succinylcholine-induced block (author's...

Pretreatment with a subparalytic dose of a nondepolarizing relaxant is used to prevent side-effects of the succinylcholine (Sch) dose needed for intubation. On the other hand small doses of Sch (self-taming) or lignocaine are recommended to avoid in part reversal of the Sch-induced block caused by nondepolarizing relaxant. 50 patients received different preinjections before Sch-induced relaxation: 2 mg alcuronium, n = 10; 1 mg pancuronium, n = 10; 0.1 mg/kg bw Sch, n = 10; 1 mg/kg bw lignocaine, n = 10; no pretreatment, n = 10. Injection of small doses of Sch or lignocaine prior to the Sch dose needed for intubation, offered no advantage in comparison to the conventional method of pretreatment with nondepolarizing relaxant, concerning intensity and duration of the relaxation, conditions for intubation and muscle fasciculations. After preinjection of Sch or lignocaine a similar rise of serum potassium was observed as without preinjection (0.4-0.5 mEq/l).