Cardiologist!!

September 27, 2010

This morning, we went to the cardiologist for another follow up.  Last time we were there, the doctor told me that she was sending Jack's file to the "Cath Conference" so that they could evaluate his condition, and discuss when his next procedure should be done.  One of the concerns was that his shunt would close on its own, and the valve wouldn't provide enough blood flow to the lungs.  The cath conference docs decided that the catheter didn't need to be done right now!  Their theory is that his valve is doing okay right now, although it will definitely need to be further opened soon. 

Their plan is to shoot for another cath procedure in about six months, which is right around Jack's first birthday, unless something happens to make them change their plan.  The things that can happen include a significant decrease in his oxygen saturation levels over a short period of time, weight loss, cyanotic episodes (blue skin) or some other sign of distress.  In the meantime, this means that I will have to monitor his saturation levels more frequently than I have in the past, which is a small change in our day.  Jack doesn't like it, but it is completely non-invasive, just annoying, because I have to wrap a probe around his toe or hand.  I am looking for a slow, gradual decrease in oxygen saturation levels, which may suggest that his lasix (diuretics) need to be decreased, in order to increase the fluid in his heart and lungs. 

So, I hope this is clear.  I was so excited about the fact that Jack will get to grow so much more before his next procedure, that I am a little "buzzy" right now!  He should be big and strong by then, for sure!

Below is a new "baby fashionisto" photo.  I love polo shirts and overalls on a baby!  Why not combine them?

Below is a photo of us in the cardiologists office.  Jack is wrapped in a blanket, because he has to be "nekkid" for his exams!

And below is a photo from a few weeks ago, that I forgot to post.  This is Jack with his new teddy  bear, "Dr Beary von Heartwell!"  I figure I'll use it in a few years to help him deal with his frequent visits to doctors and surgeons.

So there you go!  Please continue to check in on Jack!

Love
Maggie