Walailak University Hospital has successfully performed congenital heart defect (CHD) surgeries on two young patients under the “Development of Cardiac Surgery Network in the Upper Southern Region” project, in collaboration with the Cardiac Children Foundation of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.R.H. Princess Galyani Vadhana Krom Luang Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra.
This achievement marks an important milestone in improving pediatric cardiac care in the upper southern region and reducing congestion in access to specialized medical services.
A team of cardiovascular surgeons, led by Dr. Somchai Waikittipong and Dr. Panuwat Kongsereenon, performed the surgeries on October 21, 2025.
The first patient was a 2-year-old boy diagnosed with an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD), and the second was a 3-year-old girl with a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD). Both children have recovered well following their operations.
Dr. Somchai explained that pediatric cardiac surgery is considerably more complex and delicate than adult cardiac surgery, requiring seamless collaboration among multiple specialists — including cardiovascular surgeons, anesthesiologists, cardiothoracic technologists, pediatricians, and nurses from both the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and the pediatric ward — to ensure care appropriate for every stage of child development.
“Children’s bodies and organs are small, so anesthesia, surgery, and blood flow management require specialized and highly precise equipment,” said Dr. Somchai. “Postoperative care in the PICU also demands special attention because young children often cannot clearly express their symptoms. Having expert medical and nursing teams is therefore essential.”
This success reflects the strong collaboration between Walailak University Hospital and the Cardiac Children Foundation of Thailand, which not only provides academic and technical support from King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital – Thai Red Cross Society but also focuses on knowledge transfer and capacity building for healthcare professionals in the upper southern region.
Currently, there are eight hospitals in southern Thailand capable of performing cardiac surgery; however, only two hospitals — Walailak University Hospital and Songklanagarind Hospital — can perform pediatric cardiac surgeries.
Walailak University Hospital is now developing a comprehensive heart center, providing complete care for both adult and pediatric patients. The hospital currently performs surgeries for heart valve disease, coronary artery disease, aortic aneurysm, and congenital heart disease in adults, and is expanding its capacity to include congenital heart surgery in children.
For consultations or appointments regarding heart diseases in adults or children, please contact the Surgery Clinic (2nd Floor, Building B) or call 075-479999 (press 0).
*All patient photographs in this article are published with the consent of their parents.
