Information for Post-Operative Posturing following vitrectomy and insertion of a bubble of gas or oil

Personal Posturing Regime for

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Post-operative posturing is an important part of your treatment that your Consultant requires you to carry out following your surgery.

Your Consultant will have discussed the implication of post-operative posturing with you, informing you about the position and length of time that you will need to posture.

You will need to posture either:

(Circle/highlight required instruction)

With your right / left cheek to the pillow or

Sitting in an upright / 45° position or With your face down

You should try to posture for 45 minutes in every hour during the day.

At night time sleep on your left or right side, not on your back.

You should continue to posture for 7 or 10 days

Preparing for posturing

Wherever you are posturing it is a good idea to have things close to hand.

Prepare the area that you intend to use for the daytime. Keep yourself occupied with recreational items such as the radio, TV, music or talking books. Ensure that snacks and drinks are available.

Your ability to posture for extended periods will depend on how the rest of your body feels. Make yourself as comfortable as possible.

Posturing can be carried out either lying down, for example on a bed or sitting in a chair – try using both in order to relieve pressure on limbs and muscle strain. Arrange your pillow to provide support for the rest of your body whilst maintaining the correct posture position.

Wear loose comfortable clothing. Avoid items with lots of buttons down the front, especially if you have to posture face down.

If you have to posture face down, you may use a posturing aid (called a face support) this can be taken home with you from the hospital. This is designed to be used on a table. The nurse looking after you will explain how to use this posturing aid.

Your sleeping patterns will alter during your period of post-operative posturing. It is a good idea to take periodic naps so you do not become over-fatigued. You will have good days and not so good days. Take each day at a time and try to be positive.

Ask for and accept help from friends.

It is very important that you take the allocated breaks from your posturing.