April Transplant Evaluation Update

First, the results of the right heart catheterization test from last month: after a week of dialysis, my dry weight was reduced sufficiently for the test to be performed. This is important in that my pulmonary pressures need to be reduced to normal to match a healthy donor heart. I passed that test, so we know that if I can keep those pressures lower than they have been in the past I should meet this test. (Of course, I have to keep the poundage off!) The results of the pulmonary stress test last week indicated that while my heart is stronger than it was in August, it still is in tough shape and will have to be replaced. More evaluation needs to be done before my case is handed over to the heart transplant team for additional review. They may have more questions. Also, the kidney transplant team should start their evaluation soon. All in all, it will be 2-3 months after both teams have completed their evaluations before I get listed. So maybe August, before I get listed ( which is not a given; things can happen). We shall see!

Peritoneal Dialysis Update

We started peritoneal dialysis (PD) training on 2/13 and I have to say that the experiment failed miserably. We handled the technical part easily, understanding what to do and how to do it. What I could not handle were the side effects of the continual presence of the 2 liters of solution in my gut. I had difficulty breathing and could not function other than to sit and breath as well as I could. My brain functions were impaired by the breathing difficulties and I could not walk very far before tiring. I was so distressed, depressed, disheartened, and disappointed by the experience that I had to quit the training after only three days. I am now back on hemodialysis and dealing with leg cramps again. One positive outcome of the PD experiment was the suggestion of the PD nurse that I eat a pickle when I had leg or foot cramps. I tried that cure the other night and it worked. Of course, it helps that I love pickles, but it does go against the advice of both my nephrologist and cardiologist not to eat any extra salt.

February Transplant Evaluation Update

In late January, I had two tests performed at OHSU: an echo cardiogram and a liver ultrasound. Should get the results later this month. Also, I will start peritoneal dialysis training on 2/13 so that I can do dialysis at home overnight. Dental work is also scheduled for later this month after the dialysis training.