Upcoming Surgery

We met with a cardiologist who showed us some of the 150 pictures they had from his echo. He said that from his viewpoint he thinks that the left side of the heart would not be able to sustain life and trying to close the AV canal could mean inadequate oxygen to the brain and other major organs. The surgeon who specializes in hypoplastic hearts is on vacation until Monday and has a similar surgery Monday and possibly Tuesday. If Tyler does fine through the weekend, he will most likely have a modified norwood procedure on Tuesday or Wednesday. They like to do these surgeries when the child is 7-10 days which allows the body to get rid of some fluid they have, strengthening the lungs and a being stronger than right after birth. Dr. Anthony Azakie is one of the top surgeons for hypoplastic hearts and we have heard so many great things about him. We feel so blessed to be at UCSF. We asked about down syndrome and the doctor said that AV canals are common with downs but disproportionate AV canals aren't. He said that fixing AV canals is very common and fairly simple and could be done at his second surgery if it looks like his left ventricle could sustain life, but he doesn't think that that will be the case. He said they will look over the echo results as a team, but thinks that they will go ahead with a modified norwood dealing with opening a very small portion in the aorta bridge and small left ventricle. As much as you want to hear that Tyler's heart can be repaired, we remember that it is a miracle that the Norwood procedure is available and these children have such a great survival rate compared to 10 or 20 years ago. For that we are so grateful! We know that the Lord is over all, guiding these doctors and comforting are little one. Danny and I feel so blessed and know that Tyler is in the Lord's hands. You couldn't ask for anything more. Please keep Tyler in your prayers, especially on his day of surgery. We love you all. Thanks for your support!!