Update as of July 11, 2007 @ 6:00am
Cassidy and her gangs met with the surgeon yesterday and further information was gathered. We found out that Cassidy's surgeon has also performed the Repiphysis once last year and he is aware of the technology. He prefers still the Rotationplasty over Repiphysis, however, seems to be due to his personal preference. He told Mama Carmen that Repiphysis is "do-able" but we should think further of the pros and cons of taking that option. But yet again, we did not hear much concrete comparison of the 2 different options.
Nevertheless, Cassidy has met with Dana, a 12 yr old girl who had Rotationplasty 3 months ago and Cassidy and her connected well. They showed each other their legs and chatted, it is Dana's birthday today and she will be going home to have her big party. May we also pray for Dana in her recovery and her family to be blessed by the greatest love of God.
Dr. Jesse is planning to touch base with a surgeon in Ottawa who the manufacturer of Repiphysis referred us to and who is the most experienced in Repiphysis in Canada. We are concerned that if Cassidy's surgeon is not confident in the Repiphysis technology or in performing the procedure, it might be more preferable to retain this Dr. Werier from Ottawa to operate on Cassidy either by bringing him down to Toronto to work alongside with Dr. Hopyan of SickKids, or to actually move Cassidy to Ottawa for the surgery if the final decision is for Cassidy to have Repiphysis over Rotationplasty. We are now praying specifically for wisdom in this matter so that we are able to obtain a fair second opinion thus Carmen and Andy are able to make their informed decision for Cassidy which will have a life-long effect on Cassidy.
So far, the facts are that:
(other the cosmetic appearance issue)
> Both Rotationplasty and Repiphysis yields equal chance of recurrence of cancer after surgery
> Both options give equal chances of complication such as blood clog and infections.
> If cancer returns after either option, leg amputation is necessary.
> If going for Rotationplasty, only new lower leg prosthesis needs to be replaced in the future.
> If Repiphysis, 1 surgery to replace permanent internal prosthesis at about age 20+-.
1 comment:
Dr Jesse,
I completely understand why you're more with the Repiphysis technology. But why does the Doctor feel more comfortable with Rotationplasty instead ?
Post a Comment