Surgery update...

We arrived at Blair E Batson at 6am. After a short wait in the waiting room, where Carter entertained everyone by talking and waving. Carter was taken back to the holding area. Again Carter entertained everyone. He waved at everyone that walked by and played peek-a-boo with his anesthesiologist. For me, the worst part of Carter having surgery is handing him over to the nurse or Doctor, for them to take him back to surgery. This time it was not as bad. After the nurse and anesthesiologist argued over who would carry him back, Carter put his arms out to the anesthesiologist. He then gave her a hug and seemed very content in her arms. This is very uncharacteristic of Carter. He is usually stuck on my side and only has anything to do with anyone if I'm holding him.
    Carters surgery started around 7:30 am. The surgery was anticipated to last around one hour. Due to Carters anatomy it lasted 2 1/2 hours. The Doctor was able to repair Carters hernias, just not to the degree he preferred. There is a chance the hernias could occur again. The toughest part of the surgery for Carter was pain control. Due to Carters spinal defects, he was unable to receive the usual epidural they use for pain. After Carters pain was under control he started having complications. Carter first started having EXTREME swelling which developed into two hematomas (bleeding under the skin). The Doctors were extremely concerned and monitored Carter closely. With pain medication on board, Carter was able to relax and the hematomas stopped bleeding. The swelling gradually went down and the Doctor felt comfortable allowing us to go home the next day. We go back to the Doctor Monday to see if the hematomas have reabsorbed and the swelling reduced enough to avoid another surgery. If the Doctor feels like there is too much swelling or the hematomas have not reduced enough, he will perform another surgery to drain the fluid and blood. Carters swelling continues to go down daily and he continues to be full of smiles!

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6