We had a full and good day at Sheree's appointment with Dr. Whitaker in Wichita today. Sheree asked me to post the two x-rays from today, but I am having trouble with the scanned documents. We will keep trying to upload the x-rays in future posts.
Here is the good news:
1. All the bandages from the surgery are now removed and do not need to be replaced. The stitches are on the inside and will not need to be removed either. The incision is healing nicely and does not need any dressing changes.
2. Sheree has been cleared to take a shower. From Sheree's reaction to this, it is a big deal to be able to shower.
3. They were very positive about all the walking that Sheree has done and indicated that this will shorten the recovery time.
4. By the numbers:
Sheree is 2 inches taller than before the surgery. We suspected this when she looked me in the eye when we stood next to each other.
The curviture is stabilized with the lumbar decreased from 55 degrees to 23 degrees and the thoracic decreased from 65 degrees to 50 degrees.
The final titanium count is 31 pins and 2 rods. (How does the name "Titanium Sheree" sound? Kind of catchy, don't you think?)
The length of the incision is 16.5 inches.
The not so good news, but understandable:
1. The treadmill will need to wait. But because of the good weather today, Sheree walked over 3/4 of a mile outside all at one time. Way to go Sheree. Don't know if I will be able to keep up.
2. Driving is not clear yet. Hopefully this will become more clear when we return for her next followup appointment about 3 weeks from now on February 15.
3. The incision is itchy.
So all in all, we are very pleased with the direction things are heading.
As I reflect on Sheree's decision to undergo this surgery, it was certainly a courageous step for her to take since she was not in pain before. But the goal was to partially correct and mainly stabilize her spine so that 20 years from now, she won't say, I wish I had done the surgery sooner. Although there is much work to do for complete recovery, this will seem even better 20 years from now when she will be able to say: I'm glad I did that 20 years ago.
6:00 pm 01-23-2012
Elgin
Lots of great news! 2" taller, hu? Does that mean new clothes? (I would say so!) Keep up the walking, Sheree!
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ReplyDeleteSo happy to hear the good report!! Not surprised that someone already beat me to the "new clothes" comment. We're all thinking it! Ha!
Yay! The outdoor walking is so encouraging. You're going to end up being their poster child for scoliosis curgery recovery.
What great news!!!! Even the not-so-good sounds pretty good. Mom used to say that if the incision is itchy that means it is healing-a good sign. Will the pins and rods come out in time, or do they stay put? Will keep praying that the healing continues so well.
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