I wasn't planning to update until we got the call from the new surgeon, but since it's not likely to come today I'll go ahead and let you know how our appointment went yesterday.
We met with Dr. Dodgin, our current surgeon, and he explained that the infection is just a small spot. He found an infectious disease specialist, Dr. Gray (in Peoria) who will treat her, but he wants a culture first to make sure he customizes the antibiotics as much as possible. So the surgery must come first.
Dr. D said he's willing to do the surgery at St. Joe's, or he'll refer us to Dr. Akeson (also in Peoria) who, while not formally trained in pediatric surgery, handles most of the pediatric cases in the area and has lots of experience. The advantage of Dr. D is that we'd be in town for the surgery and all follow up care, but he doesn't have a lot of experience working on children. With Dr. A we'd have to go to Peoria, but he has more experience and we'd have both doctors in one place conferring in person. Of course, it all depends on if Dr. A can get us in. I've heard he's very busy.
Dr. D did a great job of explaining the surgery. (If you're squeamish, you should skip to the next paragraph.) Basically, they'll clean out the scar tissue in the skin/muscle, then split the bone open and clean out everything that's inside. As long as the shell is there, a baby will regrow the interior with no problem. They'll insert a pin for about 3 weeks to make sure it heals straight. It may be stiff for awhile, but with as young as she is, she should eventually regain full movement. They'll definitely keep her overnight, possibly two if Dr. G wants to do a round of IV antibiotics.
Dr. D said the situation is not an emergency, but it is urgent. He'd like to see it done in the next two weeks. We're hoping we can get in to see Dr. A by the end of the week or early next week, then have the surgery by the end of next week. Then she'll be on antibiotics likely for several months. I'm so ready to have this done and behind us. Let's hope Dr. A can get us in!
4 comments:
Wow, praying for a speedy recovery.
I can not beleive they can operate on a child like that.
We will be praying for you! I had a lot of experience with Dr. A while working with different kiddos at Easter Seals - he is really good. Kory Kabe would know a lot about him too if you have any questions. Again our prayers are with you!
thanks for the update jen . . .we'll pray everything can happen in good time and well!
What a deal! Thanks for keeping us posted. We'll be praying for Catie!
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