Over break, we went to Des Moines for a secondary ultrasound on the twins. At our original ultrasound we were informed that Baby A had dilated kidneys and needed to be checked again but the concern at that time seemed limited. At the DSM ultrasound we were informed that Baby A also had an enlarged bladder and that there seemed to be a Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction (LUTO). The diagnosis was that Baby A's urinary tract is not operating properly and that amniotic fluid is low.
Because this was found at this stage and with the uniqueness of this being a multiple birth we are left with few options.
1) We can continue the pregnancy with no intervention. The outcome would be that we will have 1 healthy baby (Baby B) and Baby A will likely suffer from possible kidney failure and other organs that have not fully developed, including the lungs that need amniotic fluid to develop. Probability of survival for Baby A will be very low.
2) We could have Baby A tested, numerous times, to see if there is still kidney function, which our doctor thought was fairly unlikely. If there is they could place a shunt in the urethra to allow drainage into the amniotic fluid to allow other organs to continue to develop. Probability for Baby A would go up slightly but would probably still suffer long term health issues. The problems occur in the fact that Baby B would then be put at risk because of the procedure done for Baby A could start early labor or rupture the sac of either baby.
Because this is happening with twins and the percentages are low to begin with, because of the severe blockage, it is a hard decision for us to make. You are really stuck because the odds are all against you no matter what choice you make. You are putting Baby B at risk for just slightly better odds for Baby A.
We have chosen to continue the pregnancy with no interventions. Yes, the odds are not great (less than 15%) for Baby A without intervention but the risks involved for Baby B go up greatly with. From the medical advice that we have sought, we seem to be making the right decision. What we will pray for is a medical miracle and we ask for your prayers over the coming months as this will be a very trying time for us. The thought that there are still odds for Baby A give us hope!
Thank you for adding us to your prayers. Aaron and Jamie
6 comments:
We are thinking of you and really do hope things work out for the best. Thoughts and prayers are with you all!!
I just wanted to let you know I'm spreading your prayer request to everyone I know- my teacher associate, my parents, Jerod's parents, our other friends and family, too. God's being asked from all angles, keep the faith, talk to you soon :)
Thinking of you guys and lots of prayers coming your way!
We will definately keep you in our prayers! Take it easy and let life take its course. I pray for the best.
Thoughts and prayers your way if you need anything an ear or shoulder let me know.
Jamie, we are praying for you, your family and your baby boys.
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