September 8th Appointment

Today Brian and I went to our latest appointment up at OHSU. Below is a list of the updates from today's appointment....

1. Davis has now moved up to the 28th percentile in growth (he was in the 24th percentile last appointment.) The doctors explained to us that babies with gastroschisis have inaccurate growth estimates because one of the main measurements they use is the abdomen. Since the abdomen is missing a lot of the contents it measures small and therefore brings the average percentile down.
2. There is now another complication to add to the mix called placenta previa. This is when the placenta is located low and completely blocks or partially blocks the baby's "exit". In my case it is partially blocked. The doctors have been monitoring this issue for several weeks but have not seen any improvement so far. They will continue to watch this up until I am ready to give birth and hope that it moves. If it doesn't move I will be required to have a c-section. Placenta previa occurs in about 1 in 200 pregnancies. I figure since we already have gastroschisis which is 1 in 5000 and a heart defect that occurs in less than 1% of the overall population, why not add something else that is supposed to be "uncommon"!!!
   
3. Davis' intestines appear to be somewhat dilated at this point but it is difficult to tell. As he grows and there is less space for him the intestines get squished into where ever there is room. It is expected for the intestines to be somewhat dilated and inflamed upon birth (since they are irritated by the amniotic fluid) but we are just praying they stay healthy and unhurt until he is born.
4. Davis' delivery (induced or c-section) has been set for MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23rd!!! The doctors really want him to make it to this point because they are concerned about his lung development. Since gastroschisis babies grow with the intestines on the outside of the body it is difficult for them to breath once the defect is fixed. If Davis can get to week 37 his lungs will be a lot stronger and more likely to be able to handle the extra pressure once the intestines are put inside his body.

**On Thursday we go back into OHSU to meet with Davis' surgeon (Dr. Zallan) and we will also tour the NICU and the Ronald McDonald House (where we will be staying while Davis is at Doernbecher). I will post the update after our appointment.

Thank you again for all you prayers and support!