Comparison of intubation conditions with halothane suxamethonium and halothane topical lidocaine 2% in children undergoing

BackgroundSuxamethonium has several side effects, particularly in children, including apnea, bradycardia, hyperkalemia, and the fatal side effect malignant hyperthermia. Looking for a safe, available and cheap alternative to suxamethonium is the aim of this study.Patients and MethodsSixty children admitted for adenoidotonsillectomy aged between 3 and 8 years were classified into two groups. Group HS was formed of 30 patients anesthetized using inhalational halothane 5% and suxamethonium 1.5 mg/kg. Group HL was formed of 30 patients who were anesthetized with halothane 5% and topical oral lidocaine solution 2% at a dose of 4 mg/kg. The intubation conditions score was applied in both groups.ResultsThere was a nonsignificant difference between the two groups as regards the hemodynamic parameters both before and after intubation. There was also a nonsignificant difference in intubation conditions score between the two groups.ConclusionLidocaine 2% oral solution at a dose of 4 mg/kg before intubation produces similar hemodynamics and intubation conditions to suxamethonium in adenoidotonsillectomy in children aged 3-8 years.