Update #6

Friends and family,

Dad’s fifth surgery took place on Friday. Doctors spent 7.5 hours on him and we are happy to report he made some progress. Dad successfully received cadaver skin grafts and a tracheotomy after not being able to do so in the two prior surgeries. It’s difficult to describe our feelings over the last two weeks, but we can tell you that our idea of progress is much different than it was when this first happened. Here are some of the highlights (and lowlights)…

He was bleeding a lot during surgery, which is considered a good thing, and his body was finally ready to accept temporary grafts. This is based on the condition of his wounds and, prior to yesterday, dad had open wounds everywhere. The doctors placed grafts on his legs, arms, hands, forearms, abdomen, chest and face (forehead, cheeks and chin). A plastic surgeon performed work with his regular burn surgeons and added skin grafts (his own skin) to his upper and lower eyelids on both sides. One eye is completely sealed over with skin; the other is sutured shut.

Doctors were also able to perform the tracheotomy, which is good news. The ventilator tube has been removed from his mouth and throat, and is now inserted directly into his windpipe. This will help when eventually coming off the ventilator, allow for better oral care (i.e., they can brush his teeth) and improve lung function in the long term.

We are struggling with the thought that Dad will likely need partial amputations on all of his fingers. While nothing was done in this surgery, the only uncertainty now is how much of each finger will have to be removed. There can’t be many harder things in life than giving consent for surgeries like this.

On Thursday, Dad was a bit more active which resulted in the hospital staff increasing his level of sedation. This happens quite often, so we are accustomed to seeing his body twitching and shivering. We were surprised to hear that his eyes were open for a short period. The doctor told us he likely didn’t process or see anything because of the high sedation.

Dad also experienced atrial fibrillation (an abnormal heart rhythm) on Thursday, but he responded to medication by later that evening. The AF started just after a dressing change, so the doctor feels this may have been a contributor.

The doctors have reiterated that Dad has an incredibly long road ahead of him. He will likely remain heavily sedated and on the ventilator for many more weeks (and potentially months) while they continue to perform skin grafts and other surgeries. Please continue to hold him close in your hearts and prayers.

We will leave you with one lighter note. While talking with the doctor after surgery on Friday, we were elated to hear that Dad’s left ear is completely unscathed!! Remember how we said our perspective on good news has completely changed?

Dad, we miss you and long for your hugs and stories…

Colin and Ian