The Doppler ultrasound revealed yesterday that Michael does have a clot in the right groin area, so the IVC filter could not be removed.  At 3pm Michael was taken to the operatory where under local anesthesia, the filter was repositioned.  A guide wire was inserted through a blood vessel on the right side of his neck, the cone shaped IVC filter was then pulled up and placed back in position.  All they needed to do was move it, not move it to a new location.  Michael will be treated with anticoagulants until he is up and fully functioning.  Michael communicated in many ways that his neck where the incision was made, was hurting.  He was uncomfortable and tired toward early evening and was given medication to ease the pain.  The doctor that performed the procedure did not think that the swelling in his knee was related to the blood clot in the groin area.

Michael responded well and excited every visitor that came to call.  His speech and memory continue to bring more of “Mike” to the forefront sometimes with a ”hi Emily”, a secret handshake, or an insight of what memory he has of the accident and why he’s in the hospital.  The occupational therapist asked him what was injured; Mike answered “my brains.”

A brief update from the hospital case manager, reports that on all levels the doctor and therapists are pleased with Michael’s progress.  The feeding peg and remaining staples will be removed Thursday with a well-needed shower to follow.  They’ll finally be able to do the “over due” MRI to investigate the pain and swelling in Mike’s right knee.  The plan is for five weeks of continued therapy and if everything goes as planned, Michael may be able to begin the new year at home.