Annabelle updates

Just spoke to Matt.

The surgery did not start until 12:30 likely due to other surgeries and/or emergencies at the hospital. The Orthopedic surgeon talked to Matt about what would be going on. Most of it was not new to Matt, but it would be to most of us.

Annabelle's spine is open and must be closed immediately. This is non-negotiable. Her spinal column has a bend or bump that creates a bony protrusion in her back. If this were left in place, the doctors would not be able to close the opening in her back. Again, this must be closed. In the case of an adult, they would likely remove the bent section and rebuild the spinal column. This is not possible in an infant. Matt said it might be possible in a 3 year old, but that it is more ideal to wait until the patient is in their teens.

In Annabelle's case, it sounds like they will try to take out what pieces they can, but that they will need to shave down any remaining protrusions. Any sort of operation like this risks damaging the spinal cord, but the doctor indicated that the cord is likely already damaged in that area. When they cut and shave the bone, there will be some significant blood loss. They expect Annabelle to need at least one transfusion.

A baby's bones heal very quickly. Matt was told that if a baby broke her arm, the break would mend in about six days. Since the bones are growing and healing so quickly, any bones they shave in Annabelle's spine will fuse to others nearby. But again there really are no other options than to proceed and get Annabelle's spinal cord protected.

Matt visited briefly with Holly, but was called back almost immediately to sign another form. Holly has had all her IV's and tubes taken out, and she is feeling relatively good. There is some discomfort near the incision, but it sounds like the drugs are taking most of the edge off. Holly's parents are waiting on standby to fly down, and will hopefully arrive sometime this evening.

So, Annabelle will likely be in surgery until about 5:30 at this point. Please keep the Lindens and the surgeons in your thoughts and keep checking back for updates.