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Norton Children’s Heart Institute is proud to welcome Felix W. Tsai, M.D., as our newest pediatric heart surgeon. This milestone marks a meaningful step forward for families across Kentucky and the surrounding region.

With Dr. Tsai’s arrival, our program now includes three dedicated pediatric heart surgeons, which is a significant expansion of our surgical team. His addition means greater access to advanced, timely heart care for the children who need it most.

With over 20 years of experience in cardiothoracic surgery, Dr. Tsai brings extensive experience and a deep commitment to compassionate, family-centered care. His addition strengthens our ability to treat a wider range of complex heart conditions, reduce wait times and ensure that more families in our region can receive high-quality pediatric cardiac surgery close to home.

We sat down with Dr. Tsai to talk about what families can expect, how care is evolving and what inspires his work every day.

Q: For families, what’s most important to know about pediatric heart conditions today?

A: One of the most important things families should know is that many heart conditions in children are treatable, especially when they’re identified early.

Sometimes symptoms can be subtle. A child may seem more tired than usual, have trouble feeding or not grow as expected. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s always OK to ask questions and talk to your pediatrician.

The good news is that we now have more treatment options than ever before, including medications, procedures and advanced technologies that can help children live longer, healthier lives.

Q: You mentioned that more children are living longer with heart conditions. What does that mean for families?

A: It’s actually a very hopeful story.

Years ago, many children born with complex heart conditions didn’t survive into adulthood. Today, because of advances in care, many of those children are now growing up, going to school and living full lives.

At the same time, it means we’re learning more about how to care for them in the long term. Some children may need ongoing monitoring or additional treatments as they grow, but today we’re much better equipped to support them at every stage.

Q: What makes pediatric heart surgery different from other types of surgery?

A: Pediatric heart surgery is very unique.

Every child’s heart is a little different, so each surgery requires careful planning and sometimes creative problem-solving. We’re not just thinking about fixing an issue today; we’re thinking about how that repair will work years from now as your child grows.

In many cases, care is a journey. Some children may need more than one procedure over time, and that’s not a setback — it’s part of helping them grow and thrive.

Q: Families often hear about “heart failure.” What does that mean for a child?

A: “Heart failure” can sound scary, but it simply means the heart isn’t pumping as well as it should.

In children, it can show up as:

• Fatigue or low energy
• Trouble feeding or gaining weight
• Shortness of breath

What’s important to know is that heart failure in children is often treatable. With the right care — and especially when caught early — we can help improve symptoms and quality of life.

Q: Are there new treatments or technologies that give families more hope?

A: Absolutely.

We’re seeing exciting advances in devices that can support the heart when it’s struggling. These devices can help children recover or serve as a bridge while they wait for a heart transplant.

We’re also using better data and technology to personalize care, helping us predict what each child needs and respond more quickly if something changes.

Overall, the future of pediatric heart care is very promising.

Q: You’ve worked around the world. How does that shape the care you provide?

A: No matter where you are, families want the same thing: safe, compassionate care for their child.

Working in different countries taught me how important it is to listen — to families, to team members and to each child’s unique situation.

It also reinforced that the best care comes from a team. Surgeons, cardiologists, nurses and many others all work together to support each child and family.

Q: Why did you choose to join Norton Children’s?

A: What stood out most was the culture.

Everyone I met, from doctors and nurses to staff and leadership, shared the same focus: putting children and families first.

That kind of environment makes a huge difference. It means families are supported not just medically, but emotionally as well.

Q: What should families expect when they meet you for the first time?

A: My goal is to make sure families feel informed, supported and heard.

I know this can be an overwhelming experience. I take time to explain what’s happening, answer questions and make sure you understand the plan moving forward.

Most importantly, I want families to know they’re not alone. We’re walking this journey together.

Q: What inspires you most about your work?

A: It’s the families.

Parents trust us with the most important thing in their lives: their child. That’s a responsibility I take very seriously.

I’m also inspired by teaching and mentoring the care team, because great care doesn’t come from one person — it comes from everyone working together.

And at the end of the day, my own family also keeps me grounded and reminds me why this work matters so much.
Dr. Tsai’s arrival is part of Norton Children’s Heart Institute’s ongoing commitment to providing pediatric heart care that Kentucky families can count on.