Confused
Rachel and I had the appointment with the cardiologist last week. We were expecting to get specific instructions on how the procedure would be done and when. Well, much to our surprise we received some unexpected information. If you remember a tiny hole was found in Rachel's heart and we were told by our neuro-surgeon that it needed to be patched. The neuro-surgeon believes the infection that grew in Rachel's brain slid through this tiny hole and found its way to the brain. If Rachel would not have had this hole the infection would have gone to the lungs and been filtered out of her system. Keep in mind; this is our neuro-surgeons "theory." Well the unexpected news we received from the cardiologist is that he does not want to do the procedure. He seems to think it is unnecessary. Furthermore, he explained that people who have had brain abscesses (which is just a handful) do not have this procedure done. This procedure is typically only done on stroke patients. In fact, the procedure is not even FDA approved for any other reason but stokes. That being said, our cardiologist said he would defer to the neuro-surgeon. So basically he will do it if our surgeon insists. But that leaves Rachel and I very confused. The cardiologist reasoning made perfect sense. He explained that the risks of the procedure were greater than the risk of her ever getting an infection in her brain again. We also learned that 28% of the world's population has this tiny hole but they go through life never even knowing it. And even if they did know about it they would not have the whole patched. Therefore, our cardiologist does not think Rachel should have the procedure. Another thing I failed to mention is that if Rachel has the heart procedure she will be on blood thinner for 6 months which means she can not have surgery for 6 months...which means her skull won't be replaced for at least 6 months! Rachel does not want that!!! We are going to see our neuro-surgeon this Tuesday to discuss things. We are a little nervous because we know that he wants Rachel to have the procedure but we are not so sure. Please pray that we might be able to get some clear direction on this matter and feel at peace with it.
2 Comments:
Klint - thanks for continuing to update us on Rachel. We will continue to pray for her and you and Abbey Rae! Also for the doctors to have wisdom and discernment of what is best for Rachel. I know God is in control of everything - that has been very apparent all along the way!
Klint, I just found out about Rachel this morning (Dec. 10th). To say our prayers are with you is an understatement. Only those of us who have been through a similar situation know your pain. I know the uncertainties, the ups and downs, the highs and lows. All the 'pat sayings' people say to you..... Nothing seems to help. I'm glad that through your journey your prayer life has faltered at times then come alive again. That's normal. I will continue to keep you and Rachel and Abbey close as you travel through this valley. I'm also glad you have close friends in whom you can confide. As you know, God is in control and He's gracious. Step by step you and Rachel will make it to the mountaintop again.
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