During pregnancy a medical exam showed that the left part of my son’s heart had not formed. This part is responsible for his biggest and most important blood flow and circulation. Doctors told me that my boy had no chance to survive. But I could already feel my boy and I didn’t have the heart to terminate the pregnancy. I gave birth in St. Petersburg. On the fourth day of his life, Matvey had the first of three planned operations. Now he needs the second one. Our doctors recommend waiting until Matvey grows older, but the defect is unpredictable, he may get worse at any moment. My son goes short of breath, gets tired quickly. I learned that children with this same diagnosis could be treated very successfully in the US. The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia has accepted Matvey for surgery. I now have hope that he can develop normally, but the cost of treatment is enormous. I raise two children alone. Please help! Maria Agutina, Moscow.
An unpredictable defect
2012-10-30
Matvey Agutin died. He was admitted to the hospital with a severe adenovirus infection and purulent tonsillitis. He had a high fever for an entire week. As a result his heart was overloaded and gave out. We express our deepest condolences to Matvey’s mother, Maria.
Matvey Agutin was successfully operated at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Matvey underwent the Glen procedure – heart surgery where the superior vena cava is connected to the pulmonary artery. The surgery was successful and the boy is doing well. After discharge from the hospital, he will be under observation as an outpatient. Then he will return home to Russia until he undergoes the Fontan procedure, the third and final surgical correction for his heart defect, which will be completed in 1-2 years. Matvey's mother, Maria is grateful for all the help.