Muscle relaxant associated with increased ICP is?
**Core Concept**
The question tests the understanding of the effect of muscle relaxants on intracranial pressure (ICP). Muscle relaxants can have varying effects on ICP, with some causing an increase due to their mechanism of action.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Succinylcholine is a depolarizing muscle relaxant that works by activating nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, leading to sustained muscle contraction and eventual depolarization. This can increase ICP due to increased muscle tone and subsequent increased venous pressure. The increase in venous pressure can lead to increased cerebral blood volume and, subsequently, increased ICP.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Vecuronium is a non-depolarizing muscle relaxant that does not typically cause an increase in ICP. It works by competitively inhibiting nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle relaxation.
**Option B:** Rocuronium is also a non-depolarizing muscle relaxant that does not typically cause an increase in ICP. It works similarly to vecuronium by competitively inhibiting nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction.
**Option D:** Atracurium is a non-depolarizing muscle relaxant that does not typically cause an increase in ICP. It works by competitively inhibiting nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle relaxation.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When managing patients with increased ICP, it's essential to choose muscle relaxants that do not exacerbate the condition. Non-depolarizing muscle relaxants like vecuronium, rocuronium, and atracurium are safer options in these cases.
**Correct Answer:** C. Succinylcholine is associated with increased ICP.