Heather's Surgery (Update)

5/13/11 1:30pm

I apologize to all those that might have tried to glean information on Heather's status after surgery from the So Cal McMullins blog. Blogger was down last night when I tried to post an update and even deleted the pre surgery post I had written (I reposted it this morning).

Heather's surgeon, Dr. Igor Fineman, is an interesting individual and is different in many ways from my spine surgeon Dr. William Costigan. However, they both share an extreme confidence in their approach and ability. When I explained to Costigan following my surgery that the nerve pain was gone he responded, "of course it is, you think I am a hack?... pretty cool huh?" After Heather's surgery, with more of a quiet demeanor, Fineman said, "the surgery went perfectly." I like that word and do not believe there is a better word to describe the outcome of major surgery.

Heather continues to recover from what was obviously a very stressful and taxing experience for her person. She was moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) area immediately after the operation, which apparently is standard for any type of surgery involving the brain. Initially she was very pale and non responsive due to the anesthesia and continuous pain medications. However, despite the pain Heather appeared peaceful. Maybe somewhat relieved that after the many challenges our family has endured, in continuation each day is expected to improve the situation. Following a sleepless night of medical equipment sounds, nurse checks, and discomfort, today she is much more active. She communicates fine when not resting and has even stood, walked, and sat in a chair adjacent to the hospital bed.

A precautionary CT Scan earlier was negative and confirmed everything is as it should be. Heather will move from ICU to the normal recovery unit this afternoon and is anticipated to improve a bit each day.