Bella is out of surgery and resting. She has slept most of the day, which has been good. She was in surgery a little over 2 hours. The doctor met with us while Bella was moved to the recovery room. He said her cleft was one of the widest separations he has ever seen and that it was a difficult surgery. He said her palate is only 1/8 of an inch thick in some places and in others it is only 1/32 of an inch thick. We have to be very careful about how she eats or drinks for 2 weeks. She also has to wear arm cuffs for 1 week while she recovers. Because there was not much material, the palate does not reach completely to the sides of her mouth. The doctor explained that the gaps will fill in over time.
I don't want to go into all of the details, but right now Bella's tongue is stitched and pulled to the side of her mouth which is making it hard for her to swallow. They will pull the stitches out tomorrow morning.
When she got to the hospital this morning, she tried to put her jacket back on and started waving bye to all of the nurses. She remembered and did not want to stay.
She may or may not go home tomorrow. Thanks for all your prayers and well wishes. Will post updates soon.
I am so glad to hear Bella is out of surgery. I showed Tyson Bella's picture. Now he is saying "Ella Ella!" He is in love! :) I can't even leave your blog or he grabs my chin and says Ella! I hope that puts a smile on your face on a hard day like today. Take care.
ReplyDeleteWe're thinking of you all during this time! It is amazing how quickly little ones bounce back.
ReplyDeleteTake care.
Poor Baby Girl! We are praying for your strength as you have to watch her suffer the next few days/weeks, and praying that God will wrap his loving arms around Bella while she is trying to understand this change in her life!
ReplyDeleteLove you guys!
Oh my goodness...poor girl! I'm so glad the surgery is over and now the healing can begin. We are praying for you all,
ReplyDeleteLove - the Wilsons