Thursday March 31st

Neuro came by and took additional samples, said that they were ready to move forward with shunt revision surgery tomorrow around noon.  This is excellent news and keeps us moving forward.  The recovery from shunt surgery typically isn't difficult, so the weekend will be plenty of time to heal up.

Lauren will have a VUCG Monday:

"a VCUG is 'a specific x-ray that examines the urinary tract. A catheter is placed in the urethra (tube that drains urine from the bladder to the outside of the body) and the bladder is filled with a liquid dye. X-ray images will be taken as the bladder fills and empties. The images will show if there is any reverse flow of urine into the ureters and kidneys,' which can indicate that your child has vesicoureteral reflux."

This test will tell doctors a lot about her urinary and kidney anatomy and functioning.  Apparently, Lauren is VERY difficult to cath and has had the same one in since her 2nd day of birth.   This concerns doctors, leading them to believe she may have a very long tract...  Additionally, children with spina bifida usually have limited bladder control or abilities to fully empty their bladders independently without any assistance.  So, Urology will examine the test and determine the best plan for Lauren.  This may require us to do nothing because she may be able to use her bladder alone and kidneys are great, cath her daily every 4...hours, require another surgery for an abdominal urinary stoma (?)...

So, needless to say Monday will be a big day while we wait to hear back from Urology (hopefully won't have to wait until Tuesday).  Depending on the results will determine how quickly we can get home.