Wednesday, April 15, 2009

G-tubes and Nissens

Well, the nurses are still saying that he is most likely going to end up with the G-tube AND probably a "Nissen" which requires a little more invasive surgery. The nissen is a surgical procedure where the upper part of the stomach is wrapped and sewn around the bottom of the esophagus to discourage refluxing the stomach contents when fed by tube. The procedure is necessary since his stomach is ejecting it's contents....but it is reversible later on when everything starts functioning again. It sounds like a broad spectrum of feeding issues is expected with heart surgery patients since there are so many nerves located in the same area as the aorta. When these nerves get damaged, it results in things like paralyzed vocal chords, decreased swallow mechanism, reflux and aspiration (which is of major concern because it is life threatening). Our nurse told us about a girl that was released to go home and who began feeding and silently aspirating formula. She came back in critical condition and almost died. She was on life support for months and the only thing keeping her alive was "the hand of God"...so, it is understandable that they don't want to take a chance with this and would rather be safe than sorry when it comes to feedings. In a way, the G-tube would ease any fears I have about feeding him and worrying about aspiration, which would free up my mind to actually enjoy my boy. Just looking for the silver lining here....and in the end, the goal is to get him home where he can heal and thrive! The nerves eventually heal and the children are then able to work on feeding orally...but it looks like I'm going to miss out on nursing my baby. It is one of the simple joys of motherhood that also doubles as a huge stress reliever. I'm still determined to pump for as long as I can......it doesn't seem like much of an inconvenience, but it wears on you. The endless hours of pumping and having to be within a 2 hour radius of a breastpump at all times...gets old. Sleep deprivation sets in and then everything gets blurry, even firy resolve!!

Pray that I will have the continued strength and determination to stay the course. This little guy needs the immunities in the momma juice!

Blessings!
~Erika~

1 comment:

Melissa Carrolll said...

THank you for all the undates...I know how difficalt that is when you are caring for your child that is in the hospital and one is at home. You feel like you are being pulled in all diffrent dirctions. We have had to run around with having special needs kids...But as always God comes through and shows his power! My boys are heald!!!
I hope all is well, if there is anyhthing I can do to take the load off please call me. I also need your address...I have gifts for the boys. Our families love to yours!