Emergency hotline connects regional and tertiary hospitals, saving 91-year-old heart attack patient

A critical connection established through an emergency hotline has saved the life of a 91-year-old man suffering from a severe heart attack. The patient, identified only as Jeon, received timely and specialized treatment after being transferred from a regional hospital to Seoul St. Mary's Hospital.

Jeon was diagnosed with a myocardial infarction late last month at a regional hospital affiliated with Seoul St. Mary's. His condition was complicated by severe coronary calcification, making standard minimally invasive procedures difficult. The need for surgery was clear, but the patient's advanced age and existing health issues presented significant risks for general anesthesia.

Facing these challenges, the regional hospital utilized the emergency hotline to consult with Seoul St. Mary's Hospital. This facilitated a swift transfer and allowed the medical team, led by cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon Professor Kim Han-yong, to plan the best course of action. Considering Jeon's age and physical condition, the team opted for a coronary artery bypass surgery using a technique that keeps the heart beating, avoiding the need to stop it for cardiopulmonary bypass.

This off-pump surgery technique is known to reduce the systemic burden associated with extracorporeal circulation, offering a safer option for elderly patients or those with multiple comorbidities. The successful surgery and subsequent recovery of Jeon, who has since been discharged, underscore the vital role of efficient communication and collaboration between different healthcare facilities in managing complex and time-sensitive medical emergencies.