Decreased basal tear production associated with general anesthesia.

Basal tear production was measured by means of standardized Schirmer strips and 0.5% proparacaine hydrochloride topical anesthesia in 20 patients. Premedication with systemic diazepam (Valium) and atropine sulfate had no effect on basal tear production. General surgical anesthesia resulted in a noticeable depression of basal tear production at 10, 30, and 60 minutes following induction of the anesthesia. It is suggested that prophylactic eye care include both replacement of tears and prevention of mechanical exposure of the cornea during general anesthesia.