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StephanieBeth
08-13-2009, 08:58 AM
Hello,
Here is a brief overview of our son's journey through craniosynostosis.

It all started because of breastfeeding. Levi wasn't gaining weight very well and we started supplementing with formula. I was disappointed and I felt that something wasn't right. I got an appt at the Breastfeeding Clinic at the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal.

We got our first appt when Levi was 8 weeks old. Lydia (IBLC) checked him out and quickly saw that he was tongue tied. It was corrected that same day. Breastfeeding has been super since then.

Lydia also told me that Levi's forehead needs to be investigated. She said that at 8 weeks it should be rounder. She said I should mention it to the pediatrician.

The following week, we saw the pediatrician for his 2 month vaccinations. I told him about his forehead and he examined him. He gave us a referal to a neurosurgeon (Dr. Farmer) and told me that at worst case it would require helmet therapy.

The requisition for Dr. Farmer said 'plagiocephaly??' I quickly began my research. I realized that it was more severe than that and it was trigonocephaly.

The night before our appt with Dr. Farmer (NS), I wrote out on a note..."rule out craniosynostosis." I then went into Levi's room and saw his head shape (top down view). I didn't sleep that night.

On June 16th 2009, Dr. Farmer confirmed that I had done good research, it is craniosynostosis (trigonocephaly) and we would need to operate. He explained how he does the operation with Dr. Mirko Gilardino (Plastic Surgeon).

Since the diagnosis, we have met with Dr. Gilardino. I believe he will be excellent. We are in great hands!

We also had an appt in opthamology. Levi's optic nerves looked great. We have a follow up appt because they thought he might be a bit farsighted.

Our next appts will be on Sept 28, 09. We will have blood compatability tests, photo shoot, MRI and CT scan. (Big Day!)

Well, that's the story so far... I've watched the surgery online... I know what he's in for and it kills me... but I know we'll get through it.

The kids on this site prove that the results are positive, I just can't wait for it to be over with! Surgery will likely be in Nov 09.

I'll update again after his appts in Sept.

Gaby's Mom
08-13-2009, 09:48 AM
You seem to be happy with your surgical team & they are definitely on top of things, so that will make your journey easier for all of you. Good Luck. . . .I know from experience that the waiting is the hardest part.

*jules*
08-13-2009, 04:18 PM
Stephanie, thanks for sharing Levi's story with us. I'm glad he is doing well and your confident with your surgeons. Best of luck at your September appt...can't wait for the update.

Danielle
08-13-2009, 09:22 PM
Hi Stephanie,
My son had surgery 4 months ago here in Melbourne ,Australia at the Royal Children's Hospital. He had severe metopic cranio(trigoncephaly). He was diagnosed at 2 days old.
He recovered very well from surgery. We are celebrating his 1st birthday next sunday the 23rd of August. He has been throgh a lot in his first year and we want to celebrate his milestone.
All the best to you and Levi!!
Feel free to ask me any questions you may have regarding your son. I understand how challenging and difficult it is having a baby with this condition.
Regards,
Danielle

jessef
08-13-2009, 11:02 PM
Hi Stephanie and welcome. I am so sorry that you are having to go through this journey. But you are in the right place. It is very hard to see them go through surgery, but it is amazing how they bounce back. Levi will do great and so will you. My only suggestion is to enjoy every second on Levi and don't let the Cranio ruin your time with him. You will never get that back. Stay strong and please keep us posted!

Monica
08-13-2009, 11:07 PM
I just want to add my welcome as well. Florence had her metopic CVR at 4 months and is now 21 months and doing wonderfully. You sound so in control - you'll be a fantastic support for Levi. Keep us posted.