Wednesday, September 2, 2009

The Surgery Was A Success

Cathy and I just got done meeting with Maria's surgeon, Dr. Shaughnessy. The surgery went well. He showed us the x-rays and explained the procedure and Maria has a beautifully straight spine. Right now, it is corrected from a 60 degree curve to less than 20 degrees. Maria's goal was to have less than 30 degree curve. Dr. Shaughnessy said Maria has VERY strong bones and he said she is very healthy and everything is looking good. As of right now, he was able to leave a little extra flexibility at the top of the spine (T-3) where the rods start as well as at the bottom (L-2) where the rods end. Maria will be happy about this. Maria is a strong, brave girl. To put this into perspective: Dr. Shaughnessy said that this is the most difficult and painful surgery a child can be put through (twice as bad as open heart). So she has a rough few days ahead of her as she deals with the pain. But we are glad things went well.

5 comments:

  1. So glad to hear that! Take Care! You are in our prayers and thoughts.

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  2. Lori and I are relieved to hear things went better than expected. Thanks for the update, I'll have a cold one waiting for you when you get home!!!! Get after it, hang in there!

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  3. Maria, we are proud of your strength and courage

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  4. Maria, Maria, Maria,
    We love you!

    You too Bill and Catherine!!!

    John and Chelly

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  5. We have been thinking about all of. SO glad the surgery was a success. THANK YOU for these wonderful updates. Take care of yourselves.

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