COST Anesthesia and Medications in Ophthalmic Surgery Flashcards

Which topical anesthetic agent is most commonly used for ocular surface anesthesia during ophthalmic procedures?

Answer: Proparacaine 0.5% drops

Proparacaine 0.5% ophthalmic drops are the most widely used topical anesthetic for ocular surface procedures due to their rapid onset and minimal stinging.

Which type of anesthesia involves injecting anesthetic behind the globe to anesthetize the entire eye and immobilize extraocular muscles?

Answer: Retrobulbar block

A retrobulbar block deposits anesthetic within the muscle cone behind the globe, providing complete anesthesia and akinesia for intraocular surgery.

Malignant hyperthermia is a life-threatening reaction most commonly triggered by which agents used in general anesthesia?

Answer: Succinylcholine and volatile halogenated anesthetics

Malignant hyperthermia is triggered by succinylcholine (a depolarizing neuromuscular blocker) and volatile halogenated agents such as sevoflurane, causing uncontrolled skeletal muscle metabolism.

Which mydriatic agent works by blocking muscarinic receptors to dilate the pupil and paralyze accommodation?

Answer: Atropine

Atropine is an anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) agent that blocks muscarinic receptors in the iris sphincter and ciliary muscle, producing mydriasis and cycloplegia.

Intracameral carbachol or acetylcholine is used during cataract surgery primarily for which purpose?

Answer: To constrict the pupil (miosis) after IOL implantation

Intracameral acetylcholine or carbachol is instilled to rapidly constrict the pupil after IOL insertion, reducing the risk of iris prolapse and confirming pupil function.

Which viscoelastic material property is most important for protecting the corneal endothelium during cataract surgery?

Answer: High viscosity and coating ability (cohesive OVD)

Cohesive ophthalmic viscosurgical devices (OVDs) with high viscosity coat and protect the corneal endothelium by creating a physical barrier against surgical trauma and ultrasonic energy.