Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Surgery #13

Scarlett is out of surgery, headed to the PICU for recovery.  We just spoke with the surgeon.  Here's what we know right now:

Getting an arterial IV line in her was very difficult, so it took an additional few hours.

The entire growth was removed, including some of the adjoining tissue that might harbor rogue cells.

The pathologist looked at a sample.  The initial impression is that we are again looking at glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).  Official diagnosis results will come in the next few days, but it is definitely some kind of tumor.  I have some particularly colorful words I could add here, but I'll keep it PG-rated for now. 

While they had her opened up, they used a mesh to help repair some of the unhealed soft spots on her skull.  This will hopefully help them heal stronger.

They expect her to be ready to go home Sunday or Monday.  

Her doctors at LPCH at Stanford are being informed, as well as samples sent soon to start developing their plan.  Her case will also be presented this Friday to a doctor we met at the Pablove conference in LA last month, who consults at Children's Oakland.  Basically, everyone is on it, and we should have a plan (or likely, a choice of plans...) soon.

We are pretty tired after waking up at 4:30am and being anxious all day.  I will be staying the night in the PICU tonight while Chris goes home to sleep.  I am hoping we can keep her more comfortable with pain medication this time.

Thanks for checking in on us.  I'll continue to update as we learn more about this new phase.

14 comments:

Anonymous said...

I have been thinking of you guys all day. So sorry to hear that it is a tumor. Scarlett is a tough little girl and she will fight through this as well. She has a ton of people praying for her. Hope you get some much deserved rest tonight.

VerdieGirl said...

We can take'em. Let loose with those comments! Thinking of you

child of God said...

So glad they got it all! Continuing to pray and pray for all of you.
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Carrie said...

I am so sorry it showed tumor growth. She is a fighter. Praying for your family.

Unknown said...

You've been in my prayets all day. I hope Scarlett has a smoothe recovery. Try to rrest.. Best of luck!!

PhilandJodie said...

Your family is always in my thoughts and prayers. Sending healthy wishes your way from Canada.

MelissaD said...

Scarlett is always in my prayers but especially today... I am so sorry the news isn't what you had hoped for for but your little girl is a fierce fighter and she will again kick this tumor's butt! (((Hugs))) to you and Chris.

Mia said...

Hang in there!!! Praying for you.

Jenn said...

Prayers from Iowa as always! We know Scarlett will clear this hurdle as well.

DiJe said...

LOts of love and warm sleepy thoughts to you all.

Andrea said...

Praying for your sweet princess <3

Töddel said...

Thinking of all of you in this difficult time. Scarlett is one strong little lady, she is such a fighter!

debtfree4me said...

((hugs)), big strong bear hugs from one mama to another. You've got this, we all know it... fight Scarlett fight! Positive thoughts from Indiana. <3

Anonymous said...

Keeping you in my prayers!! Lots of hugs from rainy San Diego! Recover well baby girl!