Succinylcholine or rocuronium? A meta-analysis of the effects on intubation conditions

Karcioglu, O., Arnold, J., Topacoglu, H., Ozucelik, D.N., Kiran, S. and Sonmez, N. (2006) Succinylcholine or rocuronium? A meta-analysis of the effects on intubation conditions. International Journal of Clinical Practice, 60(12), pp. 1638-1646. (doi: 10.1111/j.1742-1241.2005.00685.x) (PMID:17109670)

Abstract

This meta‐analysis was undertaken to compare the effects of succinylcholine (SCH) and rocuronium (RCR) on endotracheal intubation (ETI) conditions. Eligible randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were identified via medline and a manual search of references. The frequencies of excellent and unacceptable ETI conditions in subjects receiving SCH 1.0–1.5 mg/kg and RCR 0.6–1.2 mg/kg were determined using standard statistical methods. Inclusion criteria were met by 16 RCTs, representing 1362 subjects. SCH was associated with a 17.7% increase (95% CI = 13–22) in the frequency of excellent ETI conditions and a 5.1% decrease (95% CI = −7.3 to −2.9) in the frequency of unacceptable ETI conditions, when compared with RCR. In the subgroup undergoing true rapid sequence intubation, SCH was associated with a 19.1% increase (95% CI = 13.7–24.5) in the frequency of excellent ETI conditions. SCH appears to be superior to RCR in creating excellent ETI conditions and avoiding unacceptable ETI conditions.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Kiran, Professor Sibel
• Authors: Karcioglu, O., Arnold, J., Topacoglu, H., Ozucelik, D.N., Kiran, S., and Sonmez, N.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Public Health
• Journal Name: International Journal of Clinical Practice
• Publisher: Wiley
• ISSN: 1368-5031
• ISSN (Online): 1742-1241
• Published Online: 10 November 2006