Comparative anesthetic effects on aqueous humor dynamics in the cynomolgus monkey.

Cynomolgus monkeys were anesthetized with either intravenous (IV) ketamine hydrochloride, IV ketamine and intramuscular (IM) diazepam, IM methohexital sodium and IM pentobarbital sodium, or endotracheal halothane. Intraocular pressure, aqueous humor flow rate (F), anterior chamber volume, corneal endothelial transfer coefficient (Ka), and anterior chamber elimination coefficient (Ke) were determined noninvasively, using applanation tonometry, keratometry, pachymetry, and fluorophotometry. Arterial blood gases (ABG), acid-base balance, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were monitored.

Succinylcholine alteration of the forced duction test.

Prior to strabismus surgery, succinylcholine produces a sustained contraction of the extraocular muscles that interferes with an accurate interpretation of the forced duction test (FDT) for up to 20 minutes. Pancuronium, a nondepolarizing muscle relaxant, does not alter the FDT. Suggestions are given for management of anesthetic induction with or without muscle relaxants to facilitate intubation.