A U.S. military family’s infant, who underwent emergency heart surgery at two months old due to respiratory distress and heart failure, has recovered and received his first outpatient check-up.
Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital announced on Friday that Flores, a boy who had surgery for a ventricular septal defect, completed his inpatient treatment and had his first outpatient visit on October 13.
Flores was born at the base hospital in Pyeongtaek, where his father serves in the military. At two months old, he suddenly experienced breathing difficulties and was taken to the base hospital. Due to a rapid heartbeat, respiratory distress, and heart failure symptoms, doctors determined he needed specialized care and transferred him to the pediatric emergency center at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital.
Tests confirmed a ventricular septal defect. The heart condition affected not only his breathing but also his growth. At two months old, he had only gained about 300g (about 0.67 lb) since birth.
A ventricular septal defect is a congenital heart condition where there’s a hole in the wall between the heart’s left and right ventricles. Increased blood flow to the lungs can strain both the heart and lungs. While small defects may close on their own, treatment, including surgery, is often necessary depending on the defect’s size and symptoms.
The medical team determined that immediate surgery was crucial. Dr. Lee Cheol, a cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon specializing in pediatric heart surgery, performed the operation. Flores spent a week recovering in the hospital before being discharged.
Recalling that time, Flores’ mother said taht initially, she thought he was struggling to breathe because of digestive issues. She was shocked and heartbroken to hear he suddenly needed heart surgery. She immediately called her family back in the States.
She added that this was her first experience with a Korean university hospital, but the medical staff thoroughly explained everything about the surgery and treatment, which was reassuring. Her husband had to stay in Pyeongtaek to care for the young daughter, but the nurses were incredibly attentive and supportive, which was a tremendous help.
During his first outpatient visit, Flores appeared vibrant, making eye contact and smiling at the medical staff.
Dr. Lee Jae-young from the pediatrics department noted that when he first arrived, the baby was lethargic, and they were very concerned. Today, his eyes are bright, and he’s much more energetic. He’s eating well, and the heart failure symptoms have disappeared, so he won’t need medication going forward.
The hospital advised that if infants show difficulty feeding, exhibit signs of breathlessness, or fail to gain sufficient weight, parents should consult a specialist. Flores will continue to receive regular outpatient care while in Korea to monitor his health.
This treatment was coordinated through a patient transfer hotline between Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital’s International Medical Center and the U.S. military hospital.
Dr. Lee Ji-yeon, Director of the International Medical Center, stated that this case demonstrates how quickly they were able to admit the patient and proceed with heart surgery, thanks to the prompt cooperation of the pediatric emergency medical center. It will continue to strengthen communication and collaboration with the U.S. military hospital.
