Remarkable Recovery: ‘One-of-a-Kind’ Girl with Heart Outside Chest Undergoes Groundbreaking Surgery, Offering Hope for Rare Condition

Vanellope Hope Wilkins, a remarkable seven-year-old girl born with an incredibly rare congenital heart condition – ectopia cordis – achieved a medical milestone last week. Born in 2017 with her heart positioned outside of her chest cavity, Vanellope had undergone three previous surgeries to attempt to reposition it, but none had proven successful. Described by medical professionals as ‘one-of-a-kind,’ her case presented unprecedented challenges and a less than 10% chance of survival at birth.

The story unfolded at Glenfield Hospital in Leicester, where a dedicated team of approximately 50 specialists, including Consultant Paediatric Surgeon Nitin Patwardhan and visiting cardiothoracic surgeon Ikenna Omeje (who had initially operated on her at birth), meticulously planned a revolutionary reconstructive procedure. Prior to the surgery, Vanellope was reliant on a bypass machine for support and wore a specialized chest brace to protect her heart from external forces. The new operation aimed to create a permanent protective cage around her heart using ribs harvested from her own body – a technique never before attempted in the UK.

The complex nine-hour procedure, which took place last Wednesday at the East Midlands Congenital Heart Centre within the Leicester Royal Infirmary, involved detaching the right ventricular outflow tract and pulmonary artery from their abnormal position on her skin. This was followed by bilateral rib osteotomy – a delicate process of breaking and repositioning her ribs to form the protective cage. The surgery was deemed particularly challenging due to Vanellope’s unique presentation and the potential for vessel damage during detachment. Consultant Cardiac Surgeon, Ikenna Omeje, emphasized the excitement surrounding the case, noting that it had garnered attention globally.

The operation was a resounding success, with surgeons expressing delight at the outcome. Mr. Omeje described the X-ray of Vanellope’s chest post-surgery as ‘really beautiful.’ The procedure has significantly improved Vanellope’s quality of life and eliminates the need for further heart surgeries. Following a few weeks in pediatric intensive care, she will be able to remove her brace and return home to her family.

Vanellope’s mother, Naomi Findlay, 39, expressed immense pride and gratitude towards the medical team, stating, ‘It makes me extremely proud to see how far she’s come. It’s a real journey of strength and bravery…she’s so brave.’ She described the emotional difficulty of saying goodbye to her daughter at the theatre door but also conveyed a sense of readiness for the future. The NHS has been praised by Ms Findlay for its “amazing” care, and she looks forward to welcoming Vanellope home to join her siblings.

The team involved included specialists from the Congenital Heart Centre, Leicester Children’s Hospital, and a surgeon from Great Ormond Street Hospital in London – showcasing a collaborative effort dedicated to pushing the boundaries of medical science. The case serves as an inspiring testament to human resilience, surgical innovation, and the dedication of healthcare professionals.