Spinal Tap Today

They did a spinal tap on Andrew today. It went well and his head size went down by 1 1/2 cm. The neurosurgeon feels certain that a shunt will be needed. Based on his examination today, he also feels that Andrew has sagital craniosynostosis (one of the growth plates in his head fused early). He said because of that, he wants to move sooner in putting in the shunt. However, he needs to be sure that his stomach issues are cleared up. So, he will wait until he is on full feeding before planning the surgery. Our guess is 2-3 weeks. Andrew will require another surgery to address the craniosynostosis and will have to wear a special helmet for a while. The surgeon said that it is unusual for a child to need a shunt and have craniosynostosis. Because of both conditions, he may need a different type of shunt to try to help him have a normal head shape. So, we will see what happens. I am still praying that his suture is not fused.