They will start by doing an EGD (upper GI endoscopy). She will be under anesthesia during the procedure so they can perform any surgery that might be needed. The GI doctor spoke with us over the holidays to propose several different surgical options. We won't know for sure what will be done until they get in her stomach and take a look around. I'm most interested to know what her esophagus looks like as she has had esophagitis and gastritis in the past.
Her G-tube will likely be moved to a better position, away from her pylorus. He mentioned placing a different kind of G-tube (low profile) also.
We are anxious to get this procedure done, hoping it will bring more comfort to our girl.
Behind the scenes things have been rough for Abby. The magic juice (Carafate) has lost some of it's magic effect over these past several weeks, and her discomfort has been difficult to manage at times. There have been some days that it seems we are just living for the next dose of medicine, doing everything in our power to make her comfortable.
We've had to completely stop giving her meds through the G-port (stomach). In the past we were fearful of giving her meds through the J-port (intestine) b/c it has become clogged. If this port clogs we can't feed her and it's practically impossible to fix without totally replacing the tube... which is another outpatient procedure at the hospital! These past few weeks we've resorted to putting meds through this J-port b/c she totally comes unglued if we use the G-port (stomach). (I'm sure this is clear as mud; I know it doesn't make much sense unless you are used to using G-tubes)
On Monday we will be at the hospital at 6 am.
One concern we have is with the anesthesia. The past 4 times Abby has been sedated for various procedures/surgeries she has a dramatic increase in seizures afterward. In April after she had the shunt revision she ended up going into status (prolonged seizure) the next day, which sent us back to the hospital. Her VNS (vagus nerve stimulator) will have to be turned off during the procedure which also puts her at higher risk for problems.
Thank you to everyone who has prayed and continue to pray for Abby. The Lord has been so faithful in every detail of this ordeal; from the wonderful doctor, to his nurses, to the hospital staff and their scheduling this procedure so quickly. Our family who are willing to give of their time (and energy) to stay with the boys. Somehow even with all the blessings I still find it difficult to trust that all will go well Monday and her problem will be fixed.
"We're not necessarily doubting that God will do the best for us; we are wondering how painful the best will turn out to be."
C.S. Lewis
I pray this verse over Abby:
"that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
Philippians 1:6
2 comments:
Praying for you and your sweet girl. For peace, trust, and quick recovery.
Patty, that CS Lewis quote just made me cry.
I am wondering how the procedure went this morning with the snow and if you were able to keep the appt.
By the way - congrats on your 10 year anniversary. You two inspire us more than you know.
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