Neurologist Questions Neurologist

Should I contact the surgeon to have the metal plate checked?

Should a small piece of metal in the head be checked after 6 years? No other symptoms except vision changes wears glasses.
My daughter had a small metal plate inserted in her head 6 years ago for a skull growth. Her vision has been getting worse. I made an appointment with eye doctor. My question is should I contact the surgeon to have the metal plate checked?

Female | 11 years old
Medications: None
Conditions: Small piece of skull removed 6 years ago for growth

4 Answers

I would recommend seeing a Pediatric Neurologist for your 11 year old daughter. Surgeons typically will assess if it is related to the surgery itself. However, Pediatric Neurologists can make sure nothing concerning gets missed. We at Hope Neurology see Pediatric patients as well, both in clinic and through our telemedicine services nationwide. So, if any concerns that are not alleviated from when you see the doc, we are also here to help you.
though info is less clear, why she had metal piece placed
when a metal plate is used in surgical correction or for growths on the skull, this is not in an area to impact vision. It would be unlikely that this would be the cause, so I would see the eye doctor first. If they say that they cannot identify a reason for her worsening vision, it would likely be best to ask your pediatrician about this and they may order a CT scan to evaluate before determining further need for a specialist visit like the surgeon.
Although metal plates are pretty  stable, the vision change if not due to refractory vision changes that get corrected with eyeglasses certainly warrant further evaluation. It may be prudent to contact the surgeon and discuss if a scan ( CT ) may be indicated. Good luck. Dr F. Sent from AOL on Android