A Cesarean section (C-section) is a common surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through an incision in the abdomen and uterus. Like any major surgery, it requires strict safety precautions regarding items worn on the body. Medical facilities consistently advise patients to remove contact lenses before entering the operating room. This standard guideline exists because the surgical environment and the possibility of unexpected medical changes pose specific risks to eye health and patient monitoring.
Primary Safety Concerns During Anesthesia
The primary reason for removing contact lenses is the risk of an emergency requiring general anesthesia. Although most C-sections use regional anesthesia (like an epidural or spinal block), unforeseen complications can necessitate a rapid transition to full general anesthesia. This requires the insertion of a breathing tube (intubation) to secure the patient’s airway.
During this urgent procedure, the delicate cornea can be accidentally scraped or injured by medical personnel or equipment. A contact lens increases the risk of a severe corneal abrasion (a scratch on the eye’s surface). Furthermore, under general anesthesia, the eyes are often taped closed to prevent exposure and dryness. If a contact lens is left in place while the eye is sealed, it restricts the cornea’s oxygen supply, increasing the likelihood of irritation and permanent damage.
Operational Needs and Procedural Logistics
The routine operational environment of the operating room presents additional complications for contact lens wearers. Operating rooms are typically kept cool and dry, causing lenses to dehydrate quickly. This dryness can lead to a lens adhering tightly to the cornea, potentially causing discomfort or injury upon removal.
A C-section can last an hour or more, requiring the patient to lie still, which reduces the natural blinking reflex that lubricates contacts. This extended period of reduced lubrication in a dry environment can cause corneal irritation and inflammation.
Medical staff must also be able to observe the patient’s eyes directly to assess neurological status, monitoring pupil size and reaction. A contact lens, especially a tinted or colored one, can obscure or distort this visual assessment. This hinders the medical team’s ability to monitor the patient effectively.
Practical Preparation and Alternatives
Since contact lenses must be removed, the most practical alternative for vision correction during the procedure is wearing eyeglasses. Patients should bring their glasses to the hospital and wear them until they are taken into the operating room. They should also bring a proper case and fresh solution so the contacts can be safely stored. The removal of the lenses is usually done just before the patient enters the sterile operating suite or during the final preparation steps.
After the surgery, once the patient has moved to the recovery area, contacts can typically be reinserted. This is considered safe once the patient is fully awake and settled. However, it is best practice to confirm with the attending nurse or anesthesiologist before putting them back in.