MG and surgery
 

I have been diagnosed with MG for about 4 months, started with droopy eyelid and double vision. I was put on Mestonan and cellcept, and am starting to experience some single vision, mainly when I look straight ahead. My big concern right now is that I need to have knee replacement surgery and wonder what experiences people have had. I do also have muscle weakness in arms and legs. Any information would be appreciated.

Welcome!

You are right to be concerned about surgery (anesthesia mostly) with your MG. First talk to your neuro about knee surgery and ask what steps they recommend. Sometimes. neuros want to do IVIG before a scheduled surgery.

Your ortho needs to know you have MG and what meds you are taking.

Your anesthesiologist needs to know about your MG, the meds you take, and any respiratory challenges you have or have had in the past.

Once you have covered all the bases with the docs, make sure you have designated a knowledgeable HEALTHCARE PROXY. That person should completely understand your wishes regarding your medical care and should be on site during your surgery and recovery. It is that person who will represent your wishes when you can not.

Finally be sure to have a valid Living Will on file with your doctors, the hospital, and your Healthcare Proxy.

I am not trying to scare you with the Healthcare Proxy and Living Will. ANY ONE having surgery should take those steps.

Others here will have more helpful info. Good luck and let us know how things go.

All the points made in the previous post are valid. However I have had three operations since being diagnosed to remove tumours of the parotid glands, with relatively few problems but after each op was placed in the ICU for 24 to 48 hours to be monitored just to be on the safe side so if all bases are covered I would not be too concerned at the prospect of surgery.

regards Plantagenet