Since the operation to remove the infection in July 2021 I have been able to return to a somewhat normal life.....I returned to work, can drive again and have been able to come off all antibiotics. I have also attended multiple appointments with my infectious disease specialist and neurosurgeon to work out the plan for the next procedure a cranioplasty - where a titanium skull will be inserted in place of the missing skull.
Tissue Expanding
Unfortunately, since my skull has been removed the skin on top of my head has retracted and I will need to have a tissue expander inserted into my head to stretch the skin so I can fit my new skull. My neurosurgeon has referred me to a plastic surgeon who has explained the tissue expanding process, it will most likely involve:
A procedure to insert the balloon into the back of my head
A 4 week waiting period to ensure my body accepts the balloon
Followed by several weeks of pumping fluid through the balloon to stretch the skin
Once the plastic surgeon is happy with the skin expansion a cranioplasty surgery will follow, whereby the 3D printed titanium skull will be inserted.
After my last consult I have been informed that due to COVID restrictions in SA that they are waiting for clearance from SA Government to proceed with the plastic surgery procedure as it may fall under elective surgery! To say I was devastated when I heard this news is an understatement.....I feel like this is yet another kick for not only me but my whole family to move on! I have been in touch with my neurosurgeon and they are hoping to push to get the procedure underway as soon as possible.
MRI results
Following the MRI conducted in December 2021 I received some bad news - another white mass has appeared since the last scan in July 2021. My neurosurgeon said not the be concerned as he will be going in anyway to insert the skull so he can have a look then and determine what it is. It took me a few days for this news to set in, the "what ifs" definitely started to creep back in.....I had a few days of crying and feeling flat but then I had to pick myself up again and keep going. I have complete trust in my neurosurgeon and the team behind me. We will deal with whatever challenges arise in the coming year!
Another MRI will be conducted in February 2022 followed by a consult with my infectious disease specialist and neurosurgeon to determine timeframes and the plan ahead. All that I can do now is leave it in their capable hands.
