Well, after having labs and tests done ahead of time we sat in the OR waiting room on December 16th! Finally ready to have a bladder sling and MACE procedure done. Both of these procedures were suppose to help in keeping Rhianna "dry" as her little body doesn't have that ability because of her Spina Bifida. The surgery took 3+ hours and was sort of productive.
The bladder sling looks to have helped in tightening up her bladder neck and urethra to lessen leakage BUT the docs were unable to do the MACE procedure. In order to complete the MACE the docs needed to use her appendix as a stoma and they couldn't find it. They looked around for awhile and didn't want to risk damage or the anesthesia running out so they had to fore go it. We have the option of trying again with additional tests to locate the appendix. So we'll see how that works out.
Rhianna had the surgery at Loyola Hospital and it was a great experience, nice hospital. She was in the hospital for a couple of days. Probably should have stayed one more but she had a nightmare of a roommate and we all felt she would heal quicker at home. While in the hospital Rhianna had a couple of special visitors. Santa dropped by to wish her well and delivered a teddy bear. She also had a visit from a violinist who teaches at a local school. She played for us and then allowed Rhianna to play a little. It was a really neat experience! Made Rhianna's day with those visits. Thanks to all who sent well wishes, hugs and kisses. It's always helpful in the healing process to know that you are loved!
Rhianna has a follow up appointment the end of February and we'll find out more about the MACE and missing appendix plus get the final determination on how the bladder sling is working (I'm not convinced it is but they keep telling me give it time...) and if we are done with that process. We'll keep you posted. If you'd like more information on this procedure, Spina Bifida or any of the health issues Rhianna has been challenged with feel free to contact us. Rhianna is always willing to share and help folks understand a little more about her.
Rhianna waiting for the docs to come in. Isn't this a great look? A warming hat and her hospital piggy... she gets a new one for every hospital stay she has. Grandma Carol sent this one to her from KC as Mommy forgot to get one ahead of time.
Waiting and watching bad hospital TV...
Still waiting... the docs ran behind a little bit and the 1:00pm surgery didn't happen until 3:30pm! So after a 4 hour surgery, two plus hours in recovery you can imagine what time we finally got her settled in a room. Needless to say once comfy she and I passed right out!
The morning after and not such a happy camper :(
But a visit from that jolly man helped a lot! Having her picture taken with him for a card and he brought a cute little teddy bear. She was also given a bead kit the morning after her surgery by the child life staff. Very nice group of folks!
Making her laugh Santa is a nice thought however... it really was painful. :)
I love a kid who still believes even when she's a teenager! She was thrilled to see Santa and it makes these kinds of times much more tolerable to see smiling friendly faces.
The Violinist (my apologies but I have no idea what this gracious women's name is) entertaining Rhianna. She and Rhianna talked for almost an hour about music and I was so proud of Rhianna. She had a very intelligent adult conversation. She's growing up way to fast!
Then the brave women let Rhianna play her violin. She actually did a very good job. Shocked me considering she was laying in a bed, stomach incision, and uncoordinated when it comes to the hand/eye stuff. She now wants to add the violin to her repertoire... good thing I have a couple lying around!
Getting a little help...
Listening intently AND following directions...
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