As many of you know, we have been taking Eden to a couple doctors, and gotten some x-rays, etc to see what / if any problem she was having with her left leg being shorter than her right leg.
Here is the latest info…
We took her to a pediatric orthopedic specialist today in Joliet today. Dr. Moran.
After some additional x-rays, and an evaluation, it was pretty clear that Eden’s left hip is actually completely dislocated. It has been dislocated since birth. It’s called Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip, or DDH.
Because of Eden’s age, an open reduction of the hip is required. In other words, she will need surgery.
The procedure will take about 1.5 to 2 hours to do. The doctors will make a 6 inch incision and clean out the hip socket and re-locate the femur into the hip socket.
Fortunately, Dr. Moran has worked side by side with the Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Team that invented this surgery for many years. So far, we feel comfortable with him, his team and his experience.
Eden will then be placed in a cast for about 6-8 weeks. This plaster cast will be from right above her knees to her lower ribs. It’s called a Spica Cast.
After the cast is removed, she will then be fitted and placed in a special brace for an additional 8-12 weeks.
While she is in the cast and brace, she will be unable to walk or crawl, and unable to fit in normal strollers, car seats, etc. Special car seats, etc will be required.
After her casts and braces are removed, we will need to do some physical therapy to strengthen her muscles as we re-teach her how to walk, run, etc. We are talking about a 5-6 month process.
A challenging time is ahead for the TeSelle family.
Your prayers and help are requested.
Thanks ahead of time.