Sept 9th Monday morning surgery for wound cleanse and Fixator removal.

Good Monday all,   I arrived early on the scene this morning because I like to head to the basement with Mike when he goes down for surgery.  this is a great opportunity for me to meet the doctors, hear what they have to say about the procedure they are going to perform and Mike and I can also get questions addressed.  

So that's what we did about 8am.  Headed to the basement. Talked with Dr. Frome from quite some time.  Her plan was to first - remove the fixator and replace it with a splint of some sort to stabilize the foot and float the heel.  She was also going to clean and replace the wound VAC and make an incision into his ankle to explore the artery they are planning to use on Thursday for the Free Flap surgery.  ( I was going to add a link for the Free Flap surgery, but I'll let you google that one yourself - it's not for everyone to click on)    

See Below to hear what Dr. Frome said AFTER today's surgery:

Off to surgery

Dr. Frome explaining today's procedure

More explaination

Dr. Keller in the red t-shirt and Mike being a great listener when he really wants to 

"manage this project" 

I spoke with Dr. Frome after the surgery and she said things went well.  We usually do hear that. :-)

She said the fixater was removed and they flushed out the wound with a water jet type tool.  She said it was like using a power washer but in a very mini fashion.  Next she put an incision up his leg from the ankle so she could get a good look at the artery.  She was happy with what she found.  The artery will be bringing the blood supply TO the flap and other vessels will take the blood away.  This artery is KEY to the success of this surgery.  I headed back to his room since recovery time is usually very short, but it's been 4 hours now and I hear there is a small bleeding issue that they will watch before returning him. 

More good news: Yesterday Mike and I talked to Dr. Gilman who is a bone specialist and he is very happy with how Mike's bones are healing.  The femur is looking great.  His knee will take some time to recover but with therapy all of that is very optimistic for recovery.  When speaking about his ankle he said he wanted the fixator off for now, but will replace it with the Ilizarov after surgery.  At least that is today's plan - but the Docs get to change then al will - remember?   :-) 

Dr. Frome did add that we really need to hang in there!  Mike has a long year ahead of him.  Keeping a positive attitude with his chin up will greatly help in the healing and recovery of his foot.  

His Free Flap surgery is on Thursday at 8:30 and they have blocked out 6 hours in the operating room. I don't think I will know much till late in the afternoon PST.   More later - I'm going to go track him down and at least get his phone to him and give him a kiss on the forehead!  

SB in MC's room over and out for now. 

Love and Hugs to all of you!!!