Filipino Teen with Congenital Heart Disease Recovers After Successful Surgery at SNUBH

A 14-year-old boy from the Philippines has made a healthy recovery after undergoing surgery for congenital heart disease at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH).

The patient, Vincent Valente, had been diagnosed with an atrial septal defect (ASD) as an infant but had been unable to receive appropriate treatment due to limited access to medical care and financial difficulties. His condition was identified again during a health screening conducted in Cebu as part of a healthcare and nutrition improvement program for underprivileged adolescents led by the JW LEE Center for Global Medicine at Seoul National University College of Medicine.

Following his arrival in Korea, detailed examinations at SNUBH revealed not only the previously diagnosed ASD but also partial anomalous pulmonary venous return (PAPVR). The two congenital heart conditions had caused enlargement of the heart and pulmonary blood vessels.

The medical team performed surgery to close the atrial septal defect and redirect the abnormal pulmonary veins to the left atrium. Despite the complexity of the procedure, the surgery was successfully completed.

The patient recovered rapidly, breathing independently without mechanical ventilation from the day after surgery. He was discharged in good condition on September 9 and is scheduled to return to the Philippines after follow-up care in Korea.

After his return, the JW LEE Center for Global Medicine plans to continue monitoring his health in cooperation with his family and school officials.

The treatment was supported by the Korea Heart Foundation, SNUBH’s SNUbian Sharing Association, the Raphael Nanum Foundation, and alumni of the Boys’ and Girls’ Town in Korea and the Philippines.

Source: Asia Economy (아시아경제), September 15, 2026