Yesterday, Richard under went open heart surgery and was given a Helathmate II system. He went in surgery around 10 AM and was completed around 2 PM. Doctor Baily said that he was a good candidate for this and he was doing well. They left his heart open to watch for any complications and monitor blood loss and oozing. Richard received only 2 units of blood afterward which was much less than normal for this type of surgery.
Thursday, February 11th 6am, Doctor Bailey felt confident in closing Richard's chest. His temperature increased slightly but was easily maintained with normal medicines. No cause for alarm. His vital signs have been monitored constantly by his attending nurses, with all levels being normal and expected. The Nurses in the SICU (Surgical Intensive Care Unit) have been exceptional and vigil in their care of Richard, and patient with the family and their on-going, continuous questions.
As of our 10am visit, Richards color looks great he even seems to want to respond when hearing the voices of his family. We tell him how proud of him we are, how well he is doing and how much we love him.
Now that the HeartMate II is in place and functioning properly, Doctors plan to remove his breathing tube and balloon pump, making it easier for him to talk when he is awake.
We look forward to our 2pm visit where we are hopeful that he will be awake and able see and speak to us
Thank you all for your continued thoughts and Prayers. We still have a long road to travel with regard to Richard's recovery and future steps to consider, so please keep them coming!!!!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Go Team !!!
ReplyDeleteLove and Prayers From The South :)