We got some worrisome news yesterday from Dr. Black’s nurse, Nancy. Dr. Black finally reviewed Ella’s CT scan that was done on Nov. 3rd. We were supposed to see him on Nov 12th but believe it or not we missed the appointment. I don’t even know how it happened. Probably with too many things going on around the house, with Netta, etc. etc. We just missed it! There had been some confusion about the date when I scheduled it and I that had something to do with it. As soon as I realized the mistake I called his office and we were told that he would review the scans and then get back to us by phone. That didn’t happen for a whole week although I called everyday. Finally, he did see the films and determined that the ventricles on the left side of the brain had still not gotten smaller even though the shunt was turned down about 2 months ago to near the lowest setting. (It’s set at 40 with 30 being the lowest). So there is suspicion that the shunt is not really set at the setting it reads meaning a possible malfunction. So, this signifies two negative issues: 1) the large ventricles mean that Ella’s brain is not growing enough; and 2) she might need to have the shunt replaced which would require another surgery. So we are worried again. I’m especially worried that Ella’s development has been affected by all this. Although she has made many strides I think her development is alot slower than other hemispherectomy kids that I have seen – namely Will and Haley. Next Wed. Ella will have a tap done again to her shunt. That will determine the true intercranial pressure and if it is not much lower than before I guess the shunt should be replaced. On the other hand, if the pressure is low than that could mean something’s just not growing right. Either way, it’s bad news. I guess I prefer at least having something to work with and the hope that something can be done to reduce the ventricle size and get her brain growing as much as possible.