Anterior Chamber and Lens Thickness Changes Induced by Succinylcholine

Abstract

Succinylcholine chloride was administered intravenously to patients undergoing ocular and orbital surgery, and ultrasonic measurements of the anterior segment were made prior to and at 20-second intervals following administration in ten normal eyes. In all cases, there was a rapid increase in the size of the anterior chamber concomitant with a rapid diminution in the lens thickness. This effect was notable within 20 seconds after administration of the drug, was maximal in 45 to 210 seconds, and no longer noticeable after 180 to 300 seconds. Intravenous administration of succinylcholine thus appears to cause a relaxation of accommodation.