Dr. Commons
Complications in Plastic Surgery are something few care to discuss. In fact serious complications are quite rare. Nevertheless occasionally problems do arise. A largely preventable problem is that of blood clots (thromboembolism) that may originate in the calves and travel to the lungs. Once in the lungs this is called pulmonary embolism and is a threat. The pulmonary embolism problem can be successfully treated but the best course is prevention. The old advice of stay healthy by not getting sick never shined brighter. In over 25 years of practice none of my patients have ever had this blood clot – pulmonary embolism problem. I attribute this partly to good fortune but generally we make our own good fortune. I have always treated my patients premptively with every prevention method known. These preventions include the use of sequential compression devices on 100% of surgery patients during surgery to prevent blood stagnating in the calf area. These devices squeeze the lower legs gently and help keep blood moving. This works. Close cooperation with our MD anesthesiologist also greatly helps in preparing patients for surgery and picking safe candidates and procedures selected and tailored for each candidate. During surgery the anesthesiologist constantly safeguards positioning of the patient to assure the lower extremities are in good position, are moved from time to time, and have no obstructive encumbrances. I work closely with our anesthesiologists to assure safe dressing and garments that do not obstruct lower extremities. The SCDs are continued in recovery and also in the hospital if hospitalization is selected. Patients are ambulated the evening of surgery and frequent short walks are encouraged the day after surgery. In liposuction cases I will start ibuprofen or a similar NSAID for its anti coagulating effect. This combination of effort for all of my patients has been 100% successful.
Leave a Reply