Accidental injection of succinylcholine into epidural space as a test dose

We report a case of accidental administration of 100 mg of succinylcholine via an epidural catheter as a test dose instead of 2 ml 0.5% bupivacaine in a patient planned for major abdominal surgery. After 2 min, the patient complained of shortness of breath; dysarthria; and fasciculation in the trunk, upper limbs, and face. This was managed with induction to general anesthesia (GA). In the postoperative period, no neurological or cardiovascular complications were observed. There is no adequate drug as an antidote of accidentally given nonepidural drugs via an epidural catheter. Succinylcholine given via epidural catheter has been shown to prolong neuromuscular blockade. Proper labeling and storage of syringes are of utmost importance for avoiding these unpleasant situations.
Source: Saudi Journal of Anaesthesia - Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Source Type: research