Thursday morning was full of doctor's appointments back at UMC Health Science Center.  Fortunately, Raider Ranch provides complimentary wheelchair transportation - so getting Dad back to UMC was a breeze.  Here's a picture of him and his swanky ride!

Dad had an appointment with Dr. Dumais, his ortho. surgeon.  Dr. Dumais ordered a set of x-rays to make sure everything is still set in the proper healing position.  This must be periodically checked since the pelvis has a bit of movement, even when you aren't walking or weight-baring.  Dad says his right leg is still numb and feels "dead."  Dr. Dumais explained that the nerves for that leg run right into where the ExFix is attached.  Hopefully, this numbness will subside when the ExFix is removed.  It could take 6-12 months for the nerve damage to heal.  Bones heal faster than nerves.   

Mom was able to stand in behind the glass and see the x-ray on the screen.  Her only thought on that- "Those screws are LOONNNNGGGGGG!"  Dr. Dumais reviewed the x-rays and thinks things are progressing as they should and another 6(ish) weeks in the ExFix.  

Dr. Dumais also explained that the fracture in his fibula is located halfway between the ankle and the knee.  Dr. Dumais said it is the kind of break you would see if the bone was hit directly or "straight on." Imagine being hit with a baseball bat in the shin.  

They also saw Dr. Simko.  She ordered a follow up CT to check on the internal healing.  She indicated that in prior scans there were large areas around the spleen that needed attention.  Therefore, she just wanted to make sure the bleeding issues with the spleen are resolving.  She remains very positive about this since his injuries severely limit his activity.

They have temporarily discontinued his Lovenox injections, but he remains on Coumadin.

Until next time,

Dan's Dozen