摘要：There are no definitive evidence based standards regarding use of succinylcholine (SCh) for anesthesia induction. However, there is a global trend toward eliminating SCh not only in elective, but also in emergency surgery in adults. The aim of the study was to survey the use of SCh in adult elective and emergency anesthesia practice in several European countries and the United States by questionnaire. One hundred and seventy anesthesiologists out of 201 possible, from six institutions in five countries (Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, United Kingdom, and the United States) anonymously completed the questionnaire about their use of SCh. The questionnaire was structured to assess the respondents’: frequency of use of SCh in adult surgery (elective and emergency), reasons for use or rejection of SCh, positive and negative attributes of SCh, and observed side effects in their practice. Differences in use were tested using c2-test when appropriate. There was a significant difference in the use of SCh between countries for elective surgery with the lower use in UK and Hungary (c2=45.8, p complication with its use. The most frequently reported side effects were myalgias (47%), bradycardias (42%), and prolonged blockade (39%). Allergic reactions were reported by 13%, and asystole by 12% of physicians. From our survey it is possible to conclude that succinylcholine is still regularly used, at least by surveyed anesthesiologists in Europe and USA, in adult anesthesia practice, especially in elective surgery for which it may be least suited. This reflects the discrepancies between the international guidelines for the use of SCh and the clinical practice of many anesthesiologists in different countries. The regional differences in SCh usage may be considered through anesthesia cultures and practice variations depending on country.
关键词：neuromuscular blocking agents; neuromuscular depolarizing agents; succinylcholine; side effects; contraindications
