Yesterday, Connor underwent 4 different procedures during a 9 hour time to help fix and conquer his own journey with chiari malformation.   Today, Connor remains in ICU,  intubated to allow his little body to rest.  Erika, his mom, informs me that he is fighting the sedation and doctors might consider removing it this afternoon.   He is a fighter...he is  #ConnorStrong.  

Yesterday's  goals were many.  His surgical team were hoping to:

  • Redo the original decompression he had last year
  • Reconstruct the back of his skull and attach the muscles
  • Open the dura
  • Remove or pull back the brain tonsils
  • Remove a portion of his rib to use for his neck fusion

During the surgery the doctor came out and explained that his muscles had adhered to the dura making it impossible to cut into it.  This probably is the cause for his severe pain.  The dura is the tough outermost membrane enveloping the brain and spinal cord.  The next few days are crucial.  Connor is currently in a neck brace...however, if the brace doesn't work...he will require a halo.  A halo is a temporary 'permanent ' fixture to hold his head in place to allow his body to heal appropriately.  This, obviously,  is something the family wants to avoid.

Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers.  The family is truly touched by all the messages.

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