Rejection

They removed the chest tube late yesterday partially due to the belief that it had done its job and also that it was not functioning properly. But, it did drain a significant amount of fluid and apparently most of the air.

Several x-rays later, they determined that fluid / air build up was no worse than at the time the tube was removed so at this moment, it does not appear that it will be necessary to insert another. That was painful.

These current problems was the result of rejection and is now being treated with high doses of steroid IVs and antibiotics, to treat any residual infection that may be present but has not developed cultures in the lab. Her insulin levels are jumping all over the place both high and low caused by the high steroid doses. They are monitoring closely.

There is absolutely nothing about this that is a surprise and it is simply a part of the normal life for most lung transplant patients so, we live with it and move on. Although we certainly do not want flare ups like this, it is only a matter of when and not if especially, but not limited to the first couple years. At least at this time, it is treatable.

Hopefully, a few days of this regime and she can come home for a couple days prior to going back to the hospital next week for surgery. But, one day at a time.