This study investigates the effects of Tetracaine eye drops on oculocardiac reflex (OCR) during strabismus surgery. A randomised controlled trial of 70 strabismus surgery patients aged two to 19 years was conducted with comparison of Tetracaine versus placebo. Demographics were similar between groups preoperatively. There was no significant difference for blood pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate or duration of surgical procedure. A significant difference was found for incidence of OCR at released stage and incision stage; being greater in the placebo group. Severity of OCR was not different at release stage but was significant at incision stage. The authors conclude the use of Tetracaine eye drops reduces the incidence and severity of OCR in the post-release stage of strabismus surgery. Further larger sample studies are advised.
Tetracaine to reduce OCR
Reviewed by Fiona Rowe
Reduction of oculocardiac reflex with Tetracaine eye drops in strabismus surgery.
CONTRIBUTOR
Fiona Rowe (Prof)
Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, UK.
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