Dr. Herz, the urologist who performed Thien Nhan's urethral dilation on Thursday morning, reports that the procedure went well. Dr. Herz enlarged the boy's urethral opening and stitched it to the skin to hold it open with sutures that will dissolve. A scope revealed that Thien Nhan's urinary system is in good shape and his kidneys are normal. His existing urethra is of a length that will make the future grafting of the urethral tube --which will be built using tissue from the inside of his cheek -- much easier. About one third of his penis remains, which is good news for future reconstruction. He will also have control of his bladder functions. At this stage Thien Nhan's testosterone levels could not be ascertained by a blood test. This test will be performed when he is near or at puberty. Thien Nhan is now in great hands, recuperating at the home of Dartmouth Center nurse Jennifer Ames. [The photo shows Thien Nhan being comforted by his parents post-surgery.]Thanks to the medical team for their expertise and compassion: Dr. Daniel Herz , Dr. Levi Deters, Dr. Jennifer O'Flarhety, Dr. Christopher Rinaud, Jennifer Ames and Diane Beattie.
