Knock Knock Eye: How Hurricane Helene Caused A Nationwide IV Fluid Shortage

In this episode of Knock Knock Eye, I dive into the complex world of cataract surgery, sharing an extraordinary case of a patient who had gone 15 years without cataract surgery after a vitrectomy. I reflect on the difficulties of operating on a dense, hardened cataract, discussing the intricacies of such procedures and how prior surgeries can accelerate cataract progression. Additionally, I discuss the current IV fluid shortage caused by Hurricane Helene, which damaged a major production facility in North Carolina. This shortage is impacting hospitals nationwide, affecting elective surgeries and patient care. With a mix of surgical insights, healthcare challenges, and humorous personal stories, this episode offers a captivating look at life in medicine. Takeaways: Cataracts Can Worsen After Eye Surgery: Dr. Flannery explains how cataracts progress faster in patients who have undergone a vitrectomy, emphasizing the importance of timely cataract surgery to avoid complications. Challenges of Dense Cataracts: In this episode, Dr. Flannery shares his experience with a particularly dense cataract, describing the advanced techniques required to remove it and the complexities involved when the eye’s lens is unstable. The Importance of Early Cataract Removal: Dr. Flannery highlights how cataracts become more difficult to remove as they harden over time, making early intervention crucial for better surgical outcomes. Impact of the IV Fluid Shortage: Beyond cataracts, Dr. Flannery discusses the national shortage of IV fluids, exploring how this affects elective surgeries and the broader healthcare system. Surgeons Behaving Badly: In a lighter moment, Dr. Flannery shares a story about a surgeon who used a Swiss Army knife in place of a sterile scalpel, illustrating the strange and sometimes humorous side of healthcare. — To Get Tickets to Wife & Death: You can visit Glaucomflecken.com/live  We want to hear YOUR stories (and medical puns)! Shoot us an email and say hi! [email protected] Can’t get enough of us? Shucks. You can support the show on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive bonus shows, livestream hangouts, and much more! – http://www.patreon.com/glaucomflecken Also, be sure to check out the newsletter: https://glaucomflecken.com/glauc-to-me/ If you are interested in buying a book from one of our guests, check them all out here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dr.glaucomflecken If you like the scrubs I'm wearing, here's a link and discount code to get some Jaanuu Scrubs link: https://bit.ly/4cAvXbs code: DRG20 for 20% off first-time purchases* *This code works on full-price items only excluding embroidery!  If you want more information on models I use: Anatomy Warehouse provides for the best, crafting custom anatomical products, medical simulation kits and presentation models that create a lasting educational impact.  For more information go to Anatomy Warehouse DOT com. Link:  Anatomy Warehouse Plus for 15% off use code: Glaucomflecken15 Today's episode is brought to you by the Nuance Dragon Ambient Experience (DAX). It's like having a virtual Jonathan in your pocket. If you would like to learn more about DAX Copilot check out http://nuance.com/discoverDAX and ask your provider for the DAX Copilot experience. Produced by Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices