Day (12+1) Update: Earlier today, Ethan had the broviac catheter put in. The surgeon said this went in pretty much as planned. The idea was to go through the saphenous vein and then in the to femoral. At first, it was a bit too small so the surgeon move up slightly and tried again, no issues, slid right in. They did an x-ray to confirm placement and it was just fine. If there are any serious complications, they typically appear in the first 24 hours. Of course there is always a risk of an infection but that can be treated. His respiratory has been very stable. They are weening his machine needs down. Blood gases coming at 3PM to see if they want to make more adjustments but at the moment hes running a TV of 2.4 and Rate of 60. They would prefer a TV of 4.5/kg... being that he is 515 grams, thatd mean his idea TV should be just at about 2.3... lower just means even less machine but at least 2.3 is within the range. From there, they would look to decrease the rate again. Starting tomorrow, they may look at a different setting of the machine. The doctor didnt mention the name but basically it is while he has the tube still in, it sort of forces him to take breaths on his own. Very similar to the CPAP so its like training just before they try the CPAP again (maybe in another couple days). Its very interesting because this is the 3rd doctor in 3 days... Doc 1 (the regular) says the RAM cannula is an option. Doc 2 says no RAM cannula, not enough research, stick with the CPAP. Today, Doc 3, agrees with Doc 2, but says there is a third CPAP setup to use and then said maybe we try the intubated training I mentioned. They are all geared towards weaning but sometimes a bit interesting to hear their opinions... at least they are all directionally in agreement. Later today, they will try to get him back on the breast milk now that his indomethacin has completed. Speaking of... the murmur sounds different in a good way. The other day, it was loud maybe implying that it was closing. Today it sounds different as in not the Large PDA but just might be closing. It can be tricky because if it doesnt get small enough, then its tough for the sides to connect and close. As long as it stays small, thats important to help with his respiratory. It could take months to close completely... but again, a small PDA is better than large! Now that his broviac catheter is in, they were able to remove his last umbilical line (Umbilical Vein Catheter). Surprisingly, the tape did not make him bleed, it came right out and now we get to see the tiniest, cutest belly button... No really, weird as heck to say... he definitely didnt get that from dad! No more major action today... rest and relax after this procedure and continue to be a rock star! Thank you for your continued prayers and support. #EthanStrong
Posted on: Sat, 10 Jan 2015 19:24:52 +0000
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