Week 13 Update - Thursday, August 28, 2008

Justin had his first exam with urology to look at his hernia as well as determine whether or not he has hypospadias. In short this condition deals with the incorrect positioning of the urethra, but in case you're interested I've posted a link to an article about this below. But because he's so small they couldn't confirm for sure but they do believe he does have it so he will need to be seen by them again in November/December. Surgery will be performed on the hernia and hypospadias approximately 6 months after his original due date of September 14th, unless complications arise.
http://www.urologychannel.com/pediatric/hypospadias.shtml

Justin's head ultrasound showed that the grade 1 bleed has resolved itself.

In anticipation of being discharged Justin's oxygen is being weaned. He was switched from a 2 liter flow where he was receiving 21-29% oxygen to a 1/8th liter at 100% oxygen. I can't really explain much else because I don't totally understand it myself but the nurse practitioner said this is a good thing so that's all that matters to me.

Justin's eye exam looked good for 1 week post op. Although the disease is still present the doctor saw a pattern of regression. He will continue to monitor the progress on a weekly basis but he was happy with the results so far.

Justin now weighs 1476 grams (3 lbs 4 oz) and his feedings were increased to 30 ml every 1 1/2 hours. The doctors are very happy with his weight gain. But since he continues to have some residuals they've reduced his caloric intake and are trying to find a good balance between the two. Justin is now nippling 3 times a day and each time I've fed him he's taken all of his bottle. Hopefully it won't be long before he's on full bottle feeds.