Cranial Facial Update

Not a surprise, the cranial facial surgeon is pretty sure that Matthew has “metopic synostosis” which is a type of craniosynostosis where the front suture on the forehead closes early. We will schedule a CT scan for next week and surgery as soon as (a) both the neurosurgeon and cranial facial surgeon have an opening and (b) Matthew is okayed for surgery by the cardiologists.  Thankfully we already have a cardiologist appointment scheduled for next week to look at the new heart murmur. 

Some of the key points from today’s appointment:
-This is bone surgery, not brain surgery.  I must have looked horrified when we were discussing this, as the doctor emphasized it directly to me at least 3 times.
-This is a common surgery with good outcomes (except in the rare case of unknown heart abnormalities).
-We will want to have surgery soon, as it will minimize the possible impacts which are (a) possible pressure on the brain that could lead to mental retardation and worse and (b) head shape and growth.
-It is easier to do the surgery while Matthew is younger.  He’ll recover faster, and the bone will actually grow back.
-The surgery is about 4 hours long.  If all goes well, Matthew will be in the ICU for a day and stay in the hospital for recovery 3-4 additional days.  He’ll look the worst (eyes swollen shut) 2 days after surgery.
-Matthew will have to wear a helmet for about 2 months but will not have any additional restrictions post surgery.

So, I’ve had an order of medical/surgical priorities in my head and from today’s appointment it sounds like it was spot on-- heart, head, testes, urachus, hands.  That is…if nothing else comes up that takes priority.  Tomorrow is our pediatrician appointment to talk about the enlarged spleen and poor appetite.  Hopefully we can find the answers and it’s an easy fix.

On to some good news—Matthew rolled over from front to back this weekend.  Now he has rolled both ways!  Yippee!  As well, Matthew found his voice on Monday.  Not sure how to describe the difference but he learned to use his tongue and now he’s making a greater variety of noises.  It’s a beautiful sound!   

Also in the last few weeks, Jackson has become much more interactive with and affectionate to Matthew.  Alyssa has always been affectionate to Matthew. It is heartwarming to see Jackson be so loving.   I caught this picture today when Jackson asked to hold Matthew.  Jackson was not thrilled that Alyssa was in his territory.  hehehehe