Medical Team Visit. The team came in to examine Chase and provide an update on the plan for today.
Surgical Plan:
The team confirmed Chase is scheduled for surgery later today. The procedure will primarily be performed through the nose and will focus on draining the primary source of infection. The team also mentioned the possibility of an incision at the eyebrow area to address swelling and drainage there as well. Given the CT scan results, the team feels confident this approach will address the infection effectively. Chase must remain NPO (nothing to eat or drink) until after the procedure.
On the MRI:
The team acknowledged some mixed signals around the MRI results. While the imaging was stopped early due to interference from Chase’s braces, the portions that were readable were actually reassuring — specifically, there was no evidence of abscess formation or infection inside the brain itself, and no enlargement in that area. The disruption in imaging appeared to be centered around the area affected by the braces, while other areas were more readable. This was considered a positive finding.
Current Condition:
Chase had a relatively good night. He slept well and didn’t wake until 7am, even through blood draws. His most notable moment was at 10pm when morphine caused him to humorously announce he could no longer feel his arm — though his humor has since quieted. The team noted his swelling has increased over the past 24 hours, and he is currently experiencing more discomfort than yesterday. This is expected ahead of drainage.
Key Medical Concerns Being Monitored:
The primary concern has been whether the infection could spread to the brain. The readable portions of the MRI were reassuring on that front. The team is also monitoring white blood cell counts and watching closely to ensure the IV antibiotics are reaching the infected areas effectively. Cultures from a nasal swab have been taken, though normal nasal flora makes it difficult to pinpoint a specific organism as the definitive cause.
Post-Surgery Care:
After the procedure Chase will need ongoing sinus and nasal care, including saline irrigation twice daily and a decongestant spray. The team expects that once the infection is drained, Chase should begin feeling relief from the pressure and discomfort he’s currently experiencing.
Antibiotics:
The team is continuing the current antibiotic regimen and is not making changes based on the MRI findings at this time.
How’s Chase? 