First Expansion

Kai had his first expansion for his growing rods, and I must say, technology is certainly amazing.  Instead of having to have repeat surgeries every few months to change/lengthen rods as he grows, Kai will have this less than five minute out-patient procedure every few months for several years.  The recovery from surgery alone is more than worth it.

The doctor first used a blue magnet to find where the rods are, then he marked the spot (on both sides).  He used the machine, which rumbled and clicked for about 20-30 seconds per side (if even that long).  He explained everything he was doing each step of the way.  When he got to the actual lengthening of the rods, he said, "I'm performing surgery right now!"  It was pretty cool.

Afterwards, Kai was slightly fussy, but I think that was more due to lying face-down than the procedure, because once he was picked up he immediately calmed and was in a very good mood the rest of the day.  I would even say that he felt better after the lengthening than before.

One rod was lengthened more than the other due to sensitivity of the rods to the machine.  One side lengthened while working on the other, but the doctor wasn't worried about it.  I guess there is a mechanism that stops it when it gets to where it needs to be to help prevent over-lengthening.  If I remember correctly, one side was lengthened eight millimeters and the other side was just over six millimeters. 

Absolutely amazing, I tell you.  When we arrived at the appointment, they took x-rays to see how everything looks, and make sure the rods are still correctly placed and whatnot.  After the expansion they took another set of x-rays (not included in this post).

 In case you missed the original post, here are the after and before x-rays of his spine.  Definitely a huge difference!