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The Joint Committee of Primary Care Trusts (JCPCT) says it will consider "a number of new options" for the future of Southampton's children's heart unit.
A huge campaign was launched in favour of the local unit in response to Government plans to reduce the number of units across the country.
If Southampton closes, Island families face lengthy treks for treatment to Bristol or London.
The latest comments come from JCPCT Chairman Sir Neil McKay after a ruling by the Court of Appeal over the future of the Royal Brompton Hospital.
The Chelsea-based unit is the largest specialist centre for children's heart surgery in the UK but it may be closing after a consultation recommended having just two specialist units in London.
The initial findings were dismissed after they were challenged in court - but they've now been ruled as lawful by the Court of Appeal.
The JCPCT insists a future for Royal Brompton remains on the table, alongside a number of new options including the surgical centre in Southampton.
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