Tuesday, February 14, 2012

OUT OF SURGERY

Charlotte's out of surgery but certainly not out of the woods by any stretch.  She took a 'bit of a dip' when she came off because she started breathing fast which created more blood flow to her lungs.  This is not what we want bc in Charlotte's case, since she has a single ventricle, her first surgery last Wednesday created a new way for blood to travel to the body via a shunt.  Before, the blood flow was greater going to her lungs which is bad.  Because she started taking breaths after coming off ecmo, her heart rate increased which is NOT a good thing since it moves more blood to the lungs.  Until her body can regulate itself post surgery and balance the blood flow to the lungs and body, we need her to relax which is what she's going to do thanks to medication.  

She is critical for the next 48 hours and Dr. Mendeloff said that it's truly a balancing act at keeping her just right, much like the first 48 hours after last week's surgery.  Her situation is made even more challenging because of her small size.  She has made a stride in the right direction because she is better off not being on ecmo so at least we're heading in the right direction. Please pray for my precious baby girl.  And for us.  

4 comments:

  1. xxxxx and ooooo and prayers for you all that you may have a peaceful
    Valentine's Day. Love, Aunt Meredith

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  2. I know that we don't know each other, but I've been paying close attention to your blog and have read every update and pray for her daily. I think about your family every day lately. From one Mom to another, please know that I am praying for that precious baby and for you. My son was only in the NICU for a week at birth but I remember being so desperate for as many prayers as possible. It truly helps and just know that there are lots of strangers out there praying for you. Happy Valentine's Day baby Charlotte!

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