Psycho-Social Challenges of Patients following Orbital Exenteration
Ackuaku-Dogbe, E.M.; Biritwum, R.B.; Briamah, Z.I.
East African Medical Journal 89(12): 385-389
2012
ISSN/ISBN: 0012-835X PMID: 26852450 Document Number: 661786
Orbital exenteration results in devastating functional, aesthetic and psychological losses. We studied the psycho-social challenges of patients following orbital exenteration. Retrospective descriptive study. Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, eye clinic, Accra. Ten surviving patients, at least six months post orbital exenteration. Though all the patients were satisfied with the medical results of the surgery, 50% felt strongly uncomfortable or dissatisfied with the cosmetic effect of the surgery. Sixty percent of the patients suffered unwelcome comments and 50% uncomfortable stare from close friends and relations. Sixty percent were not uncomfortable in the company of friends and close relations. Our findings call for a counseling plan for our patients while it is also necessary to find ways of improving their cosmesis.