Decompression Surgery

[confusedse]

First of all, thank you  Doctor.  I took your advise and spoke to a neuropthomologist (sp).  It is Acute Thryoid Eye Disease.  I just found out Wednesday and it is going so fast.  CT on Monday, consult with surgeon on Wednesday.  I can't get enough info to make an informed decision.  It doesn't seem like my eye bulges that much, but my vision is worsening everyday.  My right eye is swollen, but nothing like my left.  Has anyone had good luck with this surgery?  it doesn't sound like it really helps and seems  to cause more issues than it is worth.  I am going to Emory University Hospital in Atlanta and those Emory Docs,  seem to be the best.  Should I try anti thyroid drugs and not let them do this surgery yet?.  I have horrible double vision, I actually have become used to it.  So I  don't want to rush  into anything, that doesn't seem to work.  Any suggestions, any one that had great success and I am just overlooking that question.

Confusedse...not really confused anymore, seem Graves Disease is the answer.  I am almost relieved that I have an  answer, now scared that this is the answer

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

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[confusedse]

Thank you.  I have heard and read horror stories.  I do have severe double vision, but that will be corrected later.  It seems like they are moving fast in my case.  I had Cataract surgery in Sept and my vision was 20/18.  Now I am legally blind in that eye.  I think that is why they are rushing so.  I do have patience.  I really appreciate you posting your experience.  I was feeling a little alone and you helped.

[tm514]

I had orbital decompression surgery on both eyes in March and surgery to correct eyelid retraction a few weeks ago.  I am pleased with the results.  I was one of the fortunate who didn't have double vision problems either before or after surgery.

My advice: having Graves Eye Disease requires extreme patience - there is no way to force the process, and there is a lot of waiting involved no matter what treatment path is followed.  No matter how badly you want to have the problem solved, this isn't a disease that can be "cured" with one prescription.  If you can prepare yourself that treatment will take time, and a there will be a lot of waiting for results, I think you will be less frustrated with the process.

It sounds like you have good doctors, so hopefully you will start to have relief soon.  I hope you have positive results no matter what treatment is chosen.  Good luck to you!

[confusedse]

Thank you.  That makes me feel  much better.  I see the Endrocrinologist on Monday also. I think they are wanting the surgery because my sight is so bad and deteriating rapidly.  Thanks,this is a great service you  provide.  

Confusedse

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Hello confusedse   Glad we could help with the diagnosis. I trained at the Emory University Eye Center and its one of the finest Eye Centers in the world. You couldn't be in better hands. You need to be under the overall care of a endocrinologist. The endocrine MD and the Eye MDs need to confir about the best treatment for you. That can include orbital irradiation, oral steroids, Radioactive Iodine thyroid ablation.  If you show signs of loss of sight and the above treatments are not working or not working fast enough than an emergency orbital decompression may be necessary. It is very effective and safe when done by a team that specializes in orbital surgery.

JCH IIII MD