Essential Pre and Post-Operative Care for Orbital Fat Prolapse Surgery

Precautions for Orbital Fat Prolapse Correction Surgery

Gender: Female
Age: 66
Duration of illness: 2-3 years
Chronic medical history: Diabetes
Symptoms: There is a protrusion in the eye socket.
During a hospitalization two years ago, tests were conducted, but it was considered small at that time.
An ophthalmologist advised observation.
Last year, during a visit to an ophthalmology clinic, the doctor mentioned that if it becomes unmanageable, surgery at a major hospital would be necessary.
Recently, I went to En Chu Kong Hospital for an examination, and it was determined that I need to undergo surgery for orbital fat prolapse correction, scheduled for mid-next month.
I would like to inquire about the precautions to take before and after the surgery.
Thank you.

Wenwen, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/21

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Hello, I apologize, but it is best to consult the surgeon.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tsai Wen-Yuan, Director of the Ophthalmology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2018/07/21

More Info

Orbital fat prolapse surgery, also known as orbital fat repositioning or orbital decompression surgery, is a procedure aimed at correcting the protrusion of fat from the eye socket (orbit) that can occur due to various reasons, including aging or thyroid eye disease. For a 66-year-old female patient with a history of diabetes, it is crucial to understand both pre-operative and post-operative care to ensure a successful outcome and minimize complications.

Pre-Operative Care
1. Medical Evaluation: Before surgery, a thorough medical evaluation is essential. Given the patient's chronic condition of diabetes, it is important to ensure that blood sugar levels are well-controlled. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to complications during and after surgery, including delayed healing and increased risk of infection.

2. Medication Review: The patient should provide a complete list of medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Certain medications, such as blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin), may need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued prior to surgery to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding.

3. Preoperative Instructions: The surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding fasting before the surgery, typically requiring the patient not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before the procedure. This is important to minimize the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.

4. Anesthesia Consultation: A consultation with the anesthesiologist may be necessary to discuss the type of anesthesia that will be used (general or local) and to assess any potential risks associated with the patient's medical history.

5. Emotional Preparation: It is also beneficial for the patient to mentally prepare for the surgery. Understanding the procedure, expected outcomes, and potential risks can help alleviate anxiety.

Post-Operative Care
1. Monitoring: After the surgery, the patient will be monitored in a recovery area for any immediate complications. This includes checking vital signs and ensuring that the patient is stable before discharge.

2. Pain Management: Pain is a common post-operative symptom. The surgeon will likely prescribe pain relief medication. It is important for the patient to take medications as directed and to report any severe or unmanageable pain to the healthcare provider.

3. Wound Care: The surgical site will need proper care to prevent infection. The patient should follow the surgeon's instructions regarding cleaning the area, applying ointments, and recognizing signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge).

4. Activity Restrictions: The patient should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending over for a specified period as advised by the surgeon. This helps to minimize strain on the surgical site and promotes healing.

5. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the healing process and to address any concerns. The surgeon will assess the surgical site and may remove sutures if necessary.

6. Managing Diabetes: Post-operative care for a diabetic patient includes closely monitoring blood sugar levels, as stress from surgery can affect glucose control. The patient should work with their healthcare team to adjust their diabetes management plan as needed.

7. Visual Monitoring: Since the surgery involves the eye area, the patient should be vigilant about any changes in vision. If there are sudden changes, such as blurred vision or double vision, the patient should contact their healthcare provider immediately.

Conclusion
In summary, the essential pre-operative and post-operative care for orbital fat prolapse surgery involves thorough medical evaluation, careful management of diabetes, adherence to medication protocols, and diligent follow-up care. By following these guidelines, the patient can enhance their chances of a successful surgical outcome and a smooth recovery. It is always advisable for patients to maintain open communication with their healthcare providers throughout the process to address any concerns or questions that may arise.

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