S'pore woman who went to Vietnam to save unborn baby now in KKH following 'obstetric issues' after surgery

The Singaporean woman who went to Vietnam to save her unborn baby with a severe heart defect was admitted to KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) on Jun. 9 after "obstetric issues" were detected following the surgery.

According to Tan Hak Koon, chairman of the Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at KKH, the couple had opted to do a foetal aortic valvuloplasty (FAV) in Vietnam over the option of neonatal surgical intervention KKH had advised them.

Following the procedure in Vietnam, tests conducted at KKH revealed developments that have increased the risk of preterm delivery as well as worsening of the baby’s original heart condition.

Tan further addressed the risks associated with the procedure performed in Vietnam in his statement on Jun. 12.

Foetal aortic valvuloplasty in Vietnam

The couple, who are known to KKH, had decided to travel to Tu Du Hospital in Vietnam for FAV, Tan said.

Following the procedures in May 2025, Tu Du Hospital consulted KKH regarding "obstetric issues" on Jun. 5, 2025.

The woman was subsequently admitted to KKH on Jun. 9.

Upon admission, tests revealed decreased amniotic fluid levels, suggestive of preterm rupture of membranes, along with signs of chorioamnionitis — an infection of the membranes and amniotic fluid.

A large placental blood clot was also found, and blood tests confirmed foetal bleeding.

Additionally, new foetal brain abnormalities were detected, indicating a possible brain injury resulting from blood loss.

"These developments have also significantly increased the risk of preterm delivery," Tan said.

Further foetal heart scans (echocardiography) showed that the baby’s original heart condition — severe foetal aortic stenosis (a narrowing of the aortic valve that restricts blood flow from the heart) — had worsened compared to the readings taken before the procedure.

Fully equipped to managed complex foetal conditions: KKH

"At KKH, we are fully equipped and have extensive multidisciplinary expertise to manage complex foetal conditions from as early as pregnancy, including offering surgical interventions, where appropriate," Tan said.

Expectant parents of babies diagnosed with congenital heart disease at KKH receive comprehensive counselling on the diagnosis, the typical progression of the condition if left untreated, available treatment options (both local and international), and the risks and benefits of various interventions, he added.

Following the counselling, couples can then make an informed decision about their preferred course of action, which is "always respected", Tan said.

Recommended neonatal surgical intervention

In this particular case, KKH advised the option of neonatal surgical intervention to the couple, Tan shared.

This procedure is performed after birth and has an overall success rate of 60 to 70 per cent, he explained.

It was recommended over FAV due to FAV’s limited benefits and efficacy, as well as its significant risks.

Even when successful, up to 70 per cent of foetuses who undergo FAV still require neonatal surgery — sometimes multiple procedures in the first year.

FAV is "particularly risky," Tan noted, adding that about one in six babies do not survive the procedure.

Additional risks include premature birth and infection.

"However, the patient had decided to go for FAV and chose to undergo the procedure at Tu Du Hospital. The new findings following the patient’s return to Singapore highlight these anticipated risks," he said.

KKH remains committed to providing "safe, appropriate and evidence-based care and support" to the family during this challenging time, Tan said.

"Our primary concern and priority is the health and well-being of both mother and baby."

Top photos via Tu Du Hospital and Google Photos