We left for the cath lab around 7:30 and had some medication to sedate us again before going back to the cath lab. This photo was taken before our extra sedation. It sure makes the Cath Lab look like fun, right?
This update will be rather simple in that Bernie will proceed to the operating room tomorrow morning as expected. The pressure gradient inside her left ventricle that should be close to zero is now in the high 90s as a result of the measurements this morning. We can wait no longer to address this problem.
Recovery has been okay with no extra bleeding. It's pretty hard for Bern to come off some of these heavier drugs and she gets grumpy. She has a large dressing on her groin and is a bit uncomfortable. We are glad she's eating her lunch right now (again, no gown, Body by Bernie style) and we will be taking it very easy tonight.
We will be the first case tomorrow and release her to the OR between 7 and 8 am. The surgery should take about 4 hours and we will probably get to see her in the early to middle afternoon in the PCTU (Pediatric Cardio-Thoracic ICU) Remember: this is what makes Mott unique. No other hospital in our state of Michigan has an ICU dedicated to the critical care of kids and people with congenital heart defects needing critical cardiac care. The nature of their post-operative behavior is completely unlike adults with acquired heart disease and requires high levels of training in understanding how to treat them. It's reassuring that she will be in such a specialized area where her issues can be more effectively monitored. Even though we would rather not have to go there, we are so lucky to have their care. Here's hoping we don't spend months there this time.
Thank you so much to those of you who have sent cards, gifts, meals, and messages of support. We may not be able to respond immediately, but do truly appreciate your thoughts and effort. Specific prayers for minimal bleeding and ease in getting through the scar tissue surrounding her sternum would be appreciated.
Love to you all, Smiths. God will be with you, Bernie and her surgeons tomorrow. Looking forward to your next update. xox
ReplyDeleteI too am looking forward to tomorrows update, continued prayers for Bernie and for minimal bleeding and the surgeons being able to glide through the scar tissue so the doctors can do what they need to do, prayers for you to momma and the rest of your family during this time I hope this evening brings you and Bernie some much needed rest, I'll also be praying for the cardio staff that will be taking care of her after surgery
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