Resting comfortably

Riley is out of the cath lab and in his bed. We're in the pediatric step-down unit on the 7th floor where Riley ended up the last two times after leaving the PICU. Dr. Tarnoff came down and chatted with us - "only good things to report". There were a "significant number" of collateral vessels closed off. The valves and pressures look perfect for the Fontan next week, so everything will proceed as planned.

Riley's blood oxygen saturation is now down to about 80%, it was as high as 86% before he went in for the cath. That's expected since the collaterals were responsible for the increase above his usual low-80s. After the Fontan next week, his oxygen levels should be normal - high 90s.

Before he went under we asked the doctor if they could take all of Riley's pre-op blood samples today instead of next Wednesday when we come back. The blood taking was a nightmare in 2004 before the Glenn. Riley was poked and prodded for over an hour before they found a good vein. He was hysterical and it was agonizing to watch. Fortunately the doctor reported that they were able to take all of the samples they needed during the cath, so that's a relief. I gave blood while he was under and will be able to give again on Monday (you can give every 72 hours).

He's expected to be out for another 1-2 hours, then he needs to stay lying down until 8pm. I think the portable DVD player we brought will come in handy as 3 year olds aren't exactly known for their prowess in the extended prone position.