Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 10/25/2007

Question
yesterday I had my gallbladder removed (here in houston)  I noticed last night
that my cheeks were red as if feverish, however, no fever.  Might this be a result
of the anesthetic/ oxygen, etc? I have not taken any pain meds, but do not know
if any were administered at the hospital.  Just wondered if this was normal, or if I
need to make not regarding further surgeries.

Answer
If I had to make a guess (and that is what I am doing) it is probably where the tape was holding the endotracheal tube. You might have a sensitivity to tape or it could just be irritation from the tape. It is not due to anesthetic/oxygen nor drugs (it wouldn't be so localized).

Ronald Levy, MD
Associate Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston