He had a skull x-ray and Dr. Menezes confirmed that the bone is fully blended. When showing us today's images, Dr. Menezes also took some time to flip back through the original CT images. He pointed out things that he purposefully omitted prior to surgery as to not "freak" us out. He used software to approximately measure the size of the hole in Jacob's skull-base: .75 inches!!
Today's appointments also confirmed that:
1) Jacob's plates (forehead and nose) are fully dissolved.
2) After this much time, we shouldn't have to worry about regrowth of any dermoid cells.
3) We were very, very fortunate that the surgeons were able to save Jacob's sense of smell. We were able to assure them that it is stronger than before surgery.
4) We don't have to go back for another 24 months. They will want another x-ray to ensure the bone-flap is still blending after he has grown more.
Both surgeons had giant smiles on their faces as they said goodbye. They are so very pleased with the outcome of Jacob's case.
Below are my two favorite quotes from Dr. Menezes. These are probably much funnier to Scott and I because you really have to understand this man's personality to appreciate these statements:
"I think he handsome and I say that even after I have had my fingers in his brain."
"You should let his hair grow longer to cover (motioning at the scar on the side of Jacob's head). I'm vain like that."
After we left the hospital, we finished the trip with our post-UIHC tradition: lunch at the mall and a carousel ride. It is definitely a day to celebrate!! Love you, Jacob Michael!!
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| Giant cookie after lunch |
