Information for Chemically Sensitive Persons Having Surgery
Dr. Lawrence A. Plumlee, M.D.
CSDA President Emeritus
Finding a tolerable cannula can be difficult, as the following article indicates.
I bought a “hypoallergenic” (latex free) cannula from B & F Medical (by Allied) item #33242 (25′ tubing). I used it right out of the bag; didn’t even need to air it out. It costs more and I had to special order it.
For my surgery, the anesthesiologist used propofol, isofluorane, Marcaine locally (to be able to run a line), and Fentanyl. Requested no preservatives or epinephrine.
Brought my own cannula (that got the nurses attention!) and my own pillow.
The hospital had “double washed” linens–they run the sheets through a plain water cycle to get the cleaning chemicals out. Leave it to me to have a side effect apparently from the propofol–restless, moving–which triggered the use of the gas (sure was glad I brought that cannula!). Wonders of wonders, I came out in one piece with no noticeable adverse reactions afterward.”
Postscript from Dr. Plumlee: I want to add several thoughts.
While nitrous oxide is recommended for CFIDS patients, it is definitely NOT recommended for persons with chemical sensitivity.
Also, my surgery was for a broken elbow and the orthopedist had to use screws. I insisted that he use 100% titanium rather than stainless steel.
Aside from being heat sensitive (I found this out sitting too close to a space heater!), they have worked out well.