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What's the Cost of Ventricular septal defect Diagnosis and Treatment in Republic of Korea?

Ventricular septal defect treatment cost in the Republic of Korea typically depends on whether the patient requires a heart ultrasound, which ranges from $200 to $500, or complex interventions like open heart surgery, which runs from $28,500 to $44,500. Total expenses are influenced by the surgical technique, hospital tier, and patient age. International patients can expect 50-70% savings compared to the US. Top cities for this treatment include Seoul and Incheon.

Typical Ventricular Septal Defect Treatment Costs in Republic of Korea

  • Consultation with a heart surgeon: $100 – $300
  • Heart MRI: $800 – $1,300
  • Heart ultrasound: $200 – $500
  • Open heart surgery: $28,500 – $44,500

Bookimed Expert Insight: Pediatric patients requiring specialized care should prioritize centers with high congenital heart volumes. Sejong Hospital is an excellent choice. Professor Sungho Kim has performed over 1,200 cardiac interventions there. For adult patients needing advanced digital infrastructure, Severance Hospital offers JCI-accredited care. It serves 4 million patients annually using AI and robotic technologies. These Seoul-based facilities provide top-tier safety for complex VSD repairs.

Republic of KoreaTurkeyAustria
Open heart surgeryfrom $28,500from $8,000from $70,000
Ventricular Septal Defect Surgery-from $12,000from $40,000
Interventricular septal defect surgery-from $18,000from $60,000
Data verified by Bookimed as of July 2026, based on patient requests and official quotes from 65 clinics worldwide. Median costs are based on real invoices (2025–2026) and updated monthly. Actual prices may vary.

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Best Ventricular septal defect Treatment Centers in Republic of Korea: 4 Verified Options and Prices

The Bookimed clinic ranking is based on data science algorithms, providing a trusted, transparent, and objective comparison. It takes into account patient demand, review scores (both positive and negative), the frequency of updates to treatment options and prices, response speed, and clinic certifications.
Gibbeum General Hospital
SEJONG HOSPITAL
Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH)

Get a Medical Assessment for Ventricular septal defect in Republic of Korea: Consult with Experienced Doctors Now

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verified

Sungho Kim

44 years of experience

Dr. Sungho Kim is a pediatric cardiologist at Sejong Hospital in Incheon. He has performed more than 1,200 pediatric and congenital cardiac interventions. Dr. Kim specializes in treating heart defects without open-heart surgery. He uses catheter-based methods for ASD, VSD, and tetralogy of Fallot.

  • Earned MD, MS, and PhD degrees from Hanyang University.
  • Treats complex congenital heart conditions in both children and adults.
  • Performed over 1,200 minimally invasive cardiac procedures.
  • Works at Sejong Hospital, a KOIHA-accredited facility in South Korea.
verified

Jeong Yoon Kim

13 years of experience

Dr. Jeong Yoon Kim is the Head of Pediatrics at Bucheon Sejong Hospital. She treats congenital heart defects, Kawasaki disease, and pediatric arrhythmias. Dr. Kim trained at Severance Hospital, a top-tier medical center in Korea. She provides care at both Bucheon and Incheon Sejong Hospitals.

  • Expertise in echocardiography for infants, children, and adolescents.
  • Treats structural heart issues like atrial and ventricular septal defects.
  • Collaborates with surgical teams for pre- and post-procedural heart care.
  • Practices at KOIHA-accredited Sejong Hospital, which sees 400,000+ annual patients.
verified

Jieun Ban

10 years of experience

Dr. Jieun Ban is a pediatric cardiologist at Bucheon Sejong Hospital. She specializes in pediatric arrhythmias and congenital heart disease. Dr. Ban performs catheter-based electrophysiologic treatments for children and adolescents. She works at Sejong Hospital, a KOIHA-accredited facility that serves over 402,000 patients annually.

  • Expertise in treating atrial septal defects (ASD) and ventricular septal defects (VSD).
  • Performs cryoablation to treat heart rhythm disorders in infants and children.
  • Skilled in advanced echocardiographic assessment and pediatric cardiac syncope evaluation.
  • Collaborates with multidisciplinary teams including pediatric surgeons and intensive care specialists.

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Updated: 03/27/2026
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This page may feature information relating to various medical conditions, treatments, and healthcare services available in different countries. Please be advised that the content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or guidance. Please consult with your doctor or a qualified medical professional before starting or changing medical treatment.

Expert Overview about Ventricular septal defect Treatment in Republic of Korea

These FAQs come from real patients seeking medical assistance through Bookimed. Answers are given by experienced medical coordinators and trusted clinic representatives.

What is the success rate for VSD surgery in Korea?

Ventricular septal defect (VSD) surgery in South Korea maintains a success rate of 95% for complete defect closure. Major medical centers report survival rates exceeding 90% for congenital heart procedures. Surgeons utilize advanced imaging and catheter-based techniques to ensure high precision and safety during treatment.

  • Success rate: Surgeons achieve effective defect closure in 95% of surgical VSD cases.
  • Survival rate: Cardiac centers report over 90% survival for complex congenital heart surgeries.
  • Provider credentials: Specialists like Dr. Sungho Kim have performed over 1,200 cardiac interventions.
  • Facility standards: Hospitals like Severance maintain Joint Commission International (JCI) and KOIHA accreditations.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Korea stands out globally for its volume-driven expertise in pediatric cardiology. SEJONG HOSPITAL serves over 402,000 patients annually with nearly 30 specialized departments. This massive patient volume allows surgeons to master catheter-based interventions. These procedures often replace open-heart surgery for specific VSD types, leading to faster recovery times.

Patient Consensus: Families emphasize that success includes long-term quality of life metrics like absence of arrhythmias. They note that choosing experienced specialists helps manage the high anxiety associated with pediatric heart recovery.

Is catheter closure available, or is open-heart surgery required?

Both catheter closure and open-heart surgery are available for ventricular septal defect treatment in South Korea. Cardiologists prioritize minimally invasive catheter-based interventions for suitable anatomy. Open-heart surgery remains the standard for large defects, complex locations, or cases near heart valves to ensure a secure seal.

  • Catheter closure: Specialists use guided tubes to place a sealing device without chest incisions.
  • Surgical requirement: Open-heart surgery is necessary for large holes or complex structural heart issues.
  • Minimally invasive options: Some centers offer keyhole surgery using small incisions between the ribs.
  • Diagnostic precision: Doctors use heart MRI and ultrasound to determine the safest closure method.

Bookimed Expert Insight: South Korea hosts highly specialized centers like Sejong Hospital, which manages over 400,000 patients annually. While many general hospitals default to surgery, specialized pediatric cardiologists like Dr. Sungho Kim have performed over 1,200 successful cardiac interventions. This high volume often allows these experts to successfully apply catheter-based techniques in cases where other facilities might only offer traditional surgery.

Patient Consensus: Patients note that their treatment path often changes after detailed imaging. Even if a catheter approach is preferred, the final decision depends on the hole's proximity to heart valves.

How long will I be hospitalized?

Hospitalization for ventricular septal defect treatment in South Korea typically lasts 1 to 7 days. Catheter-based interventions generally require 1 to 2 days of monitoring. Traditional surgical repair involves a stay of 4 to 7 days in JCI-accredited facilities like Severance Hospital.

  • Catheter-based stay: Patients usually remain hospitalized for 1 to 2 days post-procedure.
  • Surgical recovery time: Routine surgical repairs require approximately 4 to 7 hospital days.
  • Intensive care duration: Surgical patients typically spend the first 1 to 2 days in ICU.
  • Pediatric monitoring: Infants may stay longer to monitor feeding and oxygen levels.

Bookimed Expert Insight: South Korea is a leader in minimizing physical trauma for heart defects. Specialists like Dr. Sungho Kim at SEJONG HOSPITAL have performed over 1,200 procedures. They often prioritize catheter-based interventions. This specialized expertise helps reduce hospital stays to just 48 hours for many complex cases.

Patient Consensus: Families note that recovery is faster than expected after minimally invasive procedures. Most patients emphasize that the first 2 days require the most intensive monitoring.

Is long-term follow-up necessary after VSD treatment?

Long-term follow-up is necessary after ventricular septal defect treatment to monitor heart function through adulthood. Patients require periodic check-ups with a cardiologist to ensure patch stability and assess rhythm safety. Standard evaluations include heart ultrasounds and MRIs to detect late-onset complications early.

  • Follow-up duration: Monitoring often continues from childhood into adulthood for lifelong cardiac health.
  • Monitoring tools: Specialists use heart ultrasound and MRI to evaluate repair integrity.
  • Complication screening: Checks focus on preventing arrhythmias and managing heart muscle function.
  • Residual risks: Surveillance identifies potential aortic valve issues or small lingering leaks.

Bookimed Expert Insight: High-volume centers like Sejong Hospital manage over 400,000 patients annually and prioritize integrated pediatric-to-adult transitions. Dr. Sungho Kim has performed 1,200+ cardiac interventions, reflecting a trend where experienced Korean surgeons favor catheter-based repairs to reduce lifelong tissue scarring and future complications.

Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize that a surgical fix does not mean the end of care. Many note that keeping detailed records of the specific repair type is vital when visiting new cardiologists years later.

Does South Korea offer minimally invasive surgery for ventricular septal defect?

Republic of Korea offers minimally invasive treatments for ventricular septal defect. These include transcatheter device closure and robotic-assisted repairs. JCI-accredited centres like Severance Hospital use Da Vinci systems. Specialists such as Prof. Sungho Kim have performed over 1,200 congenital cardiac interventions to date.

  • Catheter-based closure: Specialists seal the defect using a device, avoiding chest incisions entirely.
  • Robotic surgery: Surgeons use Da Vinci systems at Severance Hospital for high-precision cardiac repairs.
  • Clinical expertise: Prof. Sungho Kim at Sejong Hospital pioneered Korean catheter-based heart treatments.
  • High-volume centres: Seoul National University Bundang Hospital serves over 1.5 million patients annually.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Analysis of Sejong Hospital data shows a clear advantage for patients transitioning into adulthood. Specialists there provide continuous follow-up care from childhood through to maturity. This long-term approach is vital, as congenital defects require monitoring throughout a patient's entire life.

Patient Consensus: Patients value how Korean clinics frame VSD treatment as routine. They note that recovery from catheter-based procedures typically takes only one week. It is important to confirm if a defect is muscular or membranous. This anatomy determines if device closure is possible.

What are the main treatment options for ventricular septal defect available in South Korea?

South Korean hospitals offer treatment for ventricular septal defect (VSD). Options include open-heart surgery, minimally invasive transcatheter closure, and conservative medical management. Major centres like Severance Hospital and Sejong Hospital provide specialist care. They use heart MRI and echocardiography to guide precise surgical or catheter-based interventions.

  • Surgical repair: Surgeons use stitches or a patch to close large defects during open-heart surgery.
  • Catheter closure: Specialists guide a closure device through blood vessels, avoiding large chest incisions.
  • Medical management: Doctors prescribe diuretics or heart medication to manage symptoms before definitive repair.
  • Specialist experience: Prof. Sungho Kim has performed over 1,200 paediatric and congenital cardiac interventions.

Bookimed Expert Insight: While many centres focus on surgery, specialised facilities like Sejong Hospital in Incheon handle over 400,000 patients annually. Their experts, including Dr Sungho Kim and Dr Jeong Yoon Kim, pioneer catheter-based repairs. This high volume allows doctors to transition paediatric patients into adult cardiac care. This occurs seamlessly within the same institution.

Patient Consensus: Patients note that South Korean specialists prioritise monitoring small defects before suggesting surgery. They suggest asking for the exact size and location of the hole. This determines whether medication or theatre is required.

When is the best time for ventricular septal defect surgery in South Korea?

In South Korea, symptomatic infants typically have surgery within 3 to 6 months of age. Specialists prioritise early intervention for babies with poor growth or heart failure. Asymptomatic children usually have surgery once they reach a weight of 4.5 kg.

  • Symptomatic timing: Surgeons operate on high-risk infants within 6 months to prevent heart failure.
  • Weight threshold: Asymptomatic infants wait until reaching 4.5 kg for safer surgical outcomes.
  • Subarterial cases: Early intervention is prioritised to prevent damage like aortic valve prolapse.
  • Diagnostic review: Specialists use heart MRI and echocardiography to determine the exact surgical window.

Bookimed Expert Insight: South Korea offers a distinct advantage for complex cases through high-volume cardiac centres. Seoul National University Bundang Hospital performs 2,400 open heart surgeries annually. This immense volume lets specialists like Dr Sungho Kim at Sejong Hospital pioneer catheter-based treatments. These techniques can replace open surgery for some VSD types, significantly reducing physical trauma for young patients.

Patient Consensus: Families find the cooler months of March or late autumn more comfortable for recovery. They suggest booking 4 months ahead to secure slots with leading paediatric cardiologists in Seoul.

What is the recovery time after ventricular septal defect surgery in South Korea?

Recovery after ventricular septal defect surgery in South Korea generally requires a 14-day total stay for international patients. Hospitalisation typically lasts 5 to 10 days. Patients return to normal daily activities within 6 weeks. Complete sternum healing and full recovery usually take 3 to 6 months.

  • Hospital discharge: Patients often move to regular wards after 5 to 7 days.
  • Initial mobility: Specialist-led exercise sessions typically start within 5 days of surgery.
  • International travel: Stable patients generally remain in Seoul for 14 days before flying.
  • Activity restrictions: Surgeons advise avoiding contact sports for 6 to 8 weeks post-surgery.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Patients can access minimally invasive catheter-based interventions at specialised centres like Sejong Hospital. Prof. Sungho Kim has performed over 1,200 of these procedures. Choosing a catheter-based repair over open-heart surgery often significantly reduces initial pain. It typically shortens the inpatient stay.

Patient Consensus: Parents note babies often heal within four weeks. Adults report returning to work in two weeks. International families emphasise staying extra days in South Korea for follow-up echocardiograms. These confirm the patch is secure.

Can a ventricular septal defect close on its own without treatment in South Korea?

Small ventricular septal defects often close naturally in South Korea within the first two years. Korean specialists typically monitor small muscular defects using echocardiography. If the hole is large or causes symptoms, JCI-accredited Seoul centres provide minimally invasive catheter repairs. Open heart surgery is also available.

  • Closure timeframe: Most small defects resolve naturally within the first 24 months of life.
  • Monitoring protocols: Specialists at SEJONG HOSPITAL use heart ultrasounds to track defect size changes.
  • Interventional expertise: Prof. Sungho Kim has performed over 1,200 paediatric and congenital cardiac interventions.
  • High-volume care: Seoul National University Bundang Hospital performs 2,400 open heart surgeries every year.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Leading Korean specialists like Prof. Sungho Kim have pioneered catheter-based treatments. These avoid open-heart surgery for defects that fail to close. Data shows clinics like SEJONG HOSPITAL and Severance Hospital maintain massive volumes. Severance performs 40,000 operations annually. These centres collaborate with top American institutions. This ensures international standards for complex paediatric cases that require intervention.

Patient Consensus: Parents in South Korea often find that small defects shrink or resolve better than expected. This frequently happens within 12 to 24 months. Families note that specialists usually recommend watchful waiting with follow-up scans. Specialists prefer this approach over immediate surgery if the child remains asymptomatic.

Is follow-up care needed after ventricular septal defect closure in South Korea?

Lifelong follow-up care is essential after ventricular septal defect closure in South Korea. Specialists use regular echocardiograms to monitor heart function and rhythm. Patients need periodic check-ups to check patch stability and screen for any late complications. These are done at JCI-accredited centres in Seoul and Incheon.

  • Monitoring frequency: Initial visits occur 3–4 times within the first year post-procedure.
  • Diagnostic tools: Cardiologists use non-invasive echocardiography and heart MRI scans for monitoring.
  • Antibiotic protocols: Patients often require preventive antibiotics for 6 months during dental visits.
  • Long-term checks: Over time, evaluation intervals typically extend to every 2 to 5 years.

Bookimed Expert Insight: South Korean specialist centres like SEJONG HOSPITAL manage exceptionally high patient volumes, seeing over 402,000 cases annually. This vast experience allows experts like Prof. Sungho Kim to refine transition programs. These programs provide seamless lifelong monitoring as paediatric patients move into adulthood, with no gaps in cardiac care.

Patient Consensus: Parents note that initial follow-up often involves scans every three months during the first year. South Korean patients emphasise having a clear plan for symptom monitoring before leaving the hospital.

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