Why Is This Done ?

[Sammy48]

Just a random question. Why are eyes taped shut when having an operation.?

[Cloverjo]

I didn't know they were. Are you sure about that?

[gness]

Well I believe it's so your eyes don't drift open and dry out during surgery, Sammy....

But....I think it's so you can't identify the clown who cuts your tummy in the wrong place......numpty he was......xx

[cupid04]

I think they tape your ears too, so you can't hear them talking about you!

[tonyav]

Thats only if it's you though. ya little minx

[Sammy48]

Every operation I have seen on TV, all the patients have tape over their eyelids, apart from eye surgery and plastic surgery on eyes.

[Sqad]

It avoids trauma to the conjunctiva and cornea from inadvertent and careless operating theatre staff (Anaesthetists, surgeons, nurses)

Also gness is correct...the dry air in the operating theatre might also be a problem.

[Old_Geezer]

It's so you can't identify who did it for when you want to sue afterwards.

[Cloverjo]

I stand corrected. So when I had my wisdom teeth out under GA, they would have taped my eyes, too?

[CrapAtCryptics]

My wife, who used to be a theatre nurse, says that they are only taped for certain types of operation and reasons most of which are detailed above but also so the anaesthetist could better monitor the reactions and state of the patient. The keeping the eyes moist and protected and probably the most significant.

[Sqad]

Even more so with your operation jo, as many hands would be competing for a small area.

[Sammy48]

Thanks for all your answers. xx