Using diazepam and atropine before strabismus surgery to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting: a randomized, controlled study.

Author(s): Ozcan AA, Gunes Y, Haciyakupoglu G

Affiliation(s): Department of Ophthalmology, Cukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Adana, Turkey.

Publication date & source: 2003-06, J AAPOS., 7(3):210-2.

Publication type: Clinical Trial; Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of diazepam and atropine sulfate premedication in preventing nausea and vomiting after strabismus surgery under general anesthesia. METHODS: Fifty children age 4 to 15 years who underwent strabismus surgery at Cukurova University Medical Faculty, Department of Ophthalmology, from February 2000 to June 2000 were randomized into 2 groups: 25 children in the control group did not receive premedication, whereas 25 children in the treatment group received premedication with 0.15 mg/kg diazepam and 0.015 mg/kg atropine sulfate. Occurrence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) was recorded. RESULTS: The incidence of PONV was lower in the premedicated group (P <.018, chi(2) test). CONCLUSIONS: It is concluded that diazepam and atropine sulfate premedication decreases nausea and vomiting after strabismus surgery.