PSYCHO-SOCIAL CHALLENGES OF PATIENTS FOLLOWING ORBITAL EXENTERATION

Abstract

Objective: Orbital exenteration results in devastating functional, aesthetic and psychological losses. We studied the psycho-social challenges of patients following orbital exenteration.

Design: Retrospective descriptive study.

Setting: Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, eye clinic, Accra.

Subjects: Ten surviving patients, at least six months post orbital exenteration.

Results: 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.

Conclusion: Our findings call for a counseling plan for our patients while it is also necessary to find ways of improving their cosmesis.