Tarsorrhaphy Procedure Opinions

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What are your opinions regarding a Tarsorrhaphy procedure?

In a nutshell, I had a stroke and as a result, my left eye does not blink so I have an infection. My doctor wants to do a tarsorrhaphy (do a search, and it comes right up), which is sewing the eyelid.

I interpreted the doctor as saying it will only be for two weeks. My question is, what is going to happen in two weeks? My stroke will not have disappeared.

A patch (even one that is taped over my eye) might irritate it, and there is also an ointment that costs around $80 – we don’t have insurance.

If I do nothing, there is a good chance I will lose my eye. If you were my doctor, what would be your reaction if I told you I would rather bite the bullet and have the eye removed?

I’ve got no problem with having the procedure (by all accounts it’s painless), but I don’t think it would do any permanent good.

We have an appointment next Tuesday (March 23) and I need to tell him what I’ve decided. Have the procedure, use a patch, apply the ointment, or ignore it and do nothing. I doubt if he will go along and remove my eye!

I know removal of the eye is permanent. Part my arriving at the right decision is to put down every thought, no matter how stupid it is.

Fortunately, I have time to mull things over.

Currently I am leaning towards a patch or the ointment. I honestly don’t see the value in having a tarsorrhaphy – especially if it’s only short term. It’s possible I need more information from the doctor.

Please continue with your opinions. They are valuable.

Best Answer

Doctors will not operate without a good reason. I would ask him why he wants to do this. Remember not all the stuff that happens after a stroke is permanent. If you are not sure about your doctor it is always ok to get a second opinion, but do something. Loosing your vision sounds like a strong motivator to me. Infections can spread, and your eye is awful close to your brain.

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