~The Speth Family~: MRI Results

Monday, May 3, 2010

MRI Results

We had another appt with the cardiologist this morning to discuss Ammon's MRI and Echo results from last week. His function looks great and his leak is minimal, but his pulmonary artery is significantly narrowed and we have to fix that before the surgery (May 13th) so he won't have to be on the bypass as long, and so the recovery will be smoother. Because the narrowing is on the side of the artery opposite the vena cava, the surgeons would have to cut the pulmonary artery open to fix the narrowed part.

Instead, they are going to cath him this week (through his femoral artery) and try to stretch it with a balloon. If that doesn't work, they will insert a shunt. If THAT doesn't work they will go in during the surgery and graft it. The cardiologist said because Ammon's heart function is so good, he thought we could get away with not doing it, but after looking at the MRI he realized it would have to be done. Its a same day thing and if all goes well he should be in better shape for the second surgery. On the bright side, he was super impressed with Ammon's feedings and weight gain :) Remember him in your prayers this week!

4 comments:

JulieMay 3, 2010 at 2:15 PM
funny story... we were doing scripture study the other morning and we learned about Ammon saving the king's flocks and Abi asked, momy, why are we praying for the man that cuts off arms?" I told her he's known for being a great man and that we were actually praying for another Ammon. :)
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John and SuziMay 3, 2010 at 2:48 PM
That is super cute :) Before Ammon came home we read some scriptures to the girls to explain how we came up with Ammon's name. Allie was fascinated with the cut off arms and asked if she could see a picture of it (we were reading in the simplified Book of Mormon Stories that you get at the distribution center) and was super disappointed that there wasn't a picture of the blood. Should I be scared? Thanks for your prayers :)
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HeidiMay 3, 2010 at 5:54 PM
I just read that same chapter yesterday and was thinking of you and your darling son. :) So great that his name and example provides so much faith, strength, courage and obedience. Sending lots of hugs and love your way!!!
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AngelaMay 4, 2010 at 8:45 PM
Please call me and let me out help out with the girls this month when you need me!! I will be waiting and my feelings will be hurt if you don't call me! :)
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