I am due for a combined Vitrectomy and Cataract removal soon. As I also have Glaucoma I must be careful post op not to increase my eye pressures by having my head lower than my heart.
Can anyone recommend a suitable aid to help with the possible pronation position post op ? As I could be called in any day on a cancellation it would be good to hear ideas. I know it is possible to hire equipment but it may be difficult to get it in time as they have not given me a definite date.
I should be very grateful for any advice, thank you.
Written by
mrsawkward
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I had a vitrectomy for fragments of cataract removed and the new lens put in. I don’t have glaucoma but didn’t have gas so no need for me to position. I just had to be careful not to lower my head when bending. I had a grabber to pick things up and mainly kept my head straight. My ais was my husband who was able to help with somethings.
Good luck, the operation was done swiftly and all went really well as I hope yours will
Thank you for your reply, so helpful to know that all went well for you. I also hope that I do not need to posture. I agree grabbers are excellent and seem to last for years.
Sorry to confuse you I got in a muddle with my password on here but previously used this name....so will try and stick with it !
I had that a while ago but I didn't have a gas bubble and didn't have to posture. I was told don't do anything more strenous than put the kettle on for 2 weeks so got friends and family to rally round and help me, bring meals round etc. I also stocked up with books and DVDs to keep myself ocupied and put my feet up often. Dont fill the kettle too high, in fact you can buy kettle stands/tilters from mobility websites. It's quite likely that your eye will fog up a day or two afterwards due to inflammation which is a natural thing and if this happens don't panic you will probably be advised to increase the steroid drops they give you and that will sort the inflammation quickly. I also bought a clear plastic eye patch from the pharmacy so my eye didn't get splashed in the shower etc. Pamper yourself for two weeks and I'm sure everything will be fine
Thank you so much, very helpful. It is so easy to do things automatically , so I will remember the kettle ! Also useful to know of the possibility of fogging up...so I do not panic. I will ask the pharmacy here if they sell clear plastic eye patches.
If you need one the hospital should supply it for you. I was given one plus the tape to use to hold it in place overnight. They also gave me the necessary drops
I had to do facedown for a week, after vitrectomy and cataract, with gas. Facedown support - the company who hires them out are very quick to deliver etc. - definitely worth getting if you can. I had the chair and it was so comfortable I could fall asleep in it. I slept on my side with cushions behind me so I couldn’t turn onto my back.
I have requested a Buddy if one is available sometime as I had such a positive experience previously with a Glaucoma UK buddy pre op. It is such a valuable service.
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