Well. Reversal has been the theme around here since our last post. Susannah's nephrostomy tubes came out last week with the hydronephrosis in both kidneys showing significant improvement. Our old friend Anne was here for the weekend and Great (Aunt) Corinne arrived Sunday night.
Monday we went back for another ultrasound which unfortunately showed that the hydronephrosis was much worse than the week before. It was very disheartening and upsetting because we didn't know why. Was there another obstruction? A problem with her bladdder? Would they have to put the tubes back in? Corinne and S and I spent nearly all day at Columbia, going back and forth between the radiology department and the urologist's office.
By the end of the day it was confirmed that Susannah can empty her bladder normally, which rules out any weird bladder problems (thank god). By the next morning, we were headed back to the hospital for yet another operation/procedure/invention. Our urologist did something called a cystoscopy, and he inserted two internal stents between her bladder and kidneys. They will ensure that there is a clear path to drain the urine and keep the pressure off her kidney tissue. She'll probably have the stents for about two months.
It is still unclear why the hydronephrosis returned so quickly. She could be experiencing some reflux. Her bladder could need more time to get back into shape. We really don't know right now.
What makes this latest episode tolerable is that Susannah is doing totally awesome. We didn't know what to expect, but she sailed through the procedure. (I was able to go back with her in the OR while they put her to sleep, which is why I am wearing that stylish moonsuit in the above photo). She had about a two-hour recovery and was eating dinner and cruising around the apartment that very night. We are still planning to make our trip to Chattanooga this week as planned.
The other thing that has made the past three days tolerable is that Corinne is still here. She was with me both days at the hospital so Ben did not have to miss work. She has been washing dishes, walking Susannah around, paying for everything and just being a wonderfully calm and supportive presence. Thank you thank you Corinne!
See you guys in Chattaboogie -- Susannah is ready to party and I'm ready to rest.
2 comments:
I think Hollywood should come a'calling with this incredible story and blog you maintain about the most incredible baby ever. Thank you Corinne! Who do you want to play you in the movie - Meryl Streep?
Much Love GMP
Bless you Corrine!
What a great girl Susannah is...can't wait to see her!
Post a Comment