Elliot's surgery was yesterday and he did very well. The surgeon met with us about 1pm to talk about what he found. His first words were that he was amazed at Elliot's strength and condition before surgery. When he got into the heart he found that the atrial septum was definitely thickened and closed. That means that Elliot should have needed surgery immediately after birth to stay alive, but he didn't. Somehow he was getting enough oxygen and held out 6 days until they did surgery yesterday. There is no explanation for why he didn't need surgery.
The surgeon was happy with the condition of Elliot's heart overall, but did have two areas of concern. One is that Elliot's aorta is much smaller than what he would like to see, about 2mm. When working with an aorta this small they run a risk of kinking or clotting after the surgery. Usually it will show itself in the first 48 hours, which are critical. However, small aortas are the biggest cause of inter-stage (between surgeries) death in HLHS babies. So we'll monitor him closely and pray that no problems arise.
The second issue is that Elliot's lungs did build up a little bit of muscle which increases the pressure inside the lungs. That can cause problems with the "passive" system they are creating to get blood flow into the lungs. However, this should also show itself within the first 48 hours, so we're watching and waiting.
Below are links to some pictures after his surgery. They might be a little graphic for young viewers so please screen them before you show your kids, if your kids are following Elliot's surgery.
Not sure if you remember me from Columbus, but I just fouond out about Elliot this weekend and have been praying for ya'll. My niece underwent open heart surgery when she was 2 weeks old for a different, but equally serious cardiac issue. We just celebrated her 10th birthday. I have lots of hope for Elliot and God's plans for you all through this!
Jennifer Young Scott
Posted by: Jennifer | July 31, 2007 at 09:27 PM
Jonathan, just had to comment after seeing those pictures. Your boy is precious and strong and brings tears to my eyes. Those pictures will stay with me and help me to pray for him.
Posted by: tim and rhianna | August 03, 2007 at 08:41 AM
Jennifer: Good to talk to you again and thank you for the support!!
T & R: It's tough to see past the wires, but he is still precious. Thank you guys!
Posted by: Jabulani Jonny | August 03, 2007 at 11:29 AM
I'm not sure how I arrived here at this blog, but my heart is so touched for your precious blessing. It is hard for me to see him in the photos, so I can only imagine what you all must feel like. My prayers are with you! May God bless you and Elliot richly.
Posted by: Pam | August 08, 2007 at 01:27 AM