Correction of Congenital Defects
Correction of congenital defects is one of the biggest challenges for a plastic surgeon. Every surgery means not only improved appearance but, most importantly, restoration of the function of the affected organ.
Congenital defects correction is most often performed in many stages and its planning must be based on the knowledge of child development. Treatment planned too late may deprive the patient of the chance for a desired effect forever. On the other hand, a surgery carried out prematurely may have a negative impact on a child’s development and may cause secondary deformations.
Depending on the age of the patient and the scope of the procedure it may be performed under general or local anaesthesia.
Lab tests required
General anaesthesia:
- blood group
- CBC
- coagulation parameters (PT/INR, APTT)
- electrolytes (Na, K)
- glucose
- creatinine
- anti-HCV and anti-HIV antibodies
- urinalysis
- electrocardiogram
- chest X-ray
Local anaesthesia:
- blood group
- CBC
- coagulation parameters (PT/INR, APTT)
- electrolytes (Na, K)
The patient must be vaccinated against hepatitis B virus.
Contraindications to the surgery
- unrealistic expectations of the patient
- active infectious disease
- mental illness
- untreated hypertension
- untreated heart diseases
- untreated diabetes
- untreated hormonal imbalances
- untreated bronchial asthma
- venous thrombosis
- menstrual bleeding
- pregnancy
Before the scheduled surgery, you have to inform the doctor about any existing medical conditions as well as about any medications you are taking or allergies you have.
- at least 4 weeks before the scheduled surgery you have to stop taking any hormonal contraception or replacement therapy (HRT);
- at least 3 weeks before the scheduled surgery you must refrain from smoking
- 14 days prior to the surgery you should not take any salicylates (Aspirin, Polopiryna, etc.) or other substances affecting blood coagulation (e.g. herbs, garlic);
- 3 days before the surgery you must refrain from taking pain medication: paracetamol, pyralgin and NSAID drugs (e.g. Ketonal, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, etc.);
- 6 hours before the surgery you must refrain from eating, drinking or chewing gum;
- you must take your chronic medication with a small amount of water.