Becoming a leader in non-cardiac thoracic surgery and robotic surgery abroad is the basis for now raising the standards of medical care at the Cardiovascular Center of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean.
By: Katherine Ardila
April 28, 2024
Born in Puerto Rico, the Caribbean island of charm and kindness, Dr. Alex Cedeño, demonstrated from an early age an innate interest in science and caring for others. His passion for medicine led him to the University of Medical Sciences of Puerto Rico, where he focused completely on the rigorous curriculum with unwavering determination. During his formative years, he stood out not only for his intelligence and clinical skills, but also for his empathy and compassion toward his patients.
Seeking opportunities to expand his knowledge and skills beyond the borders of Puerto Rico, Dr. Cedeño continued his path to the United States, where he was accepted into the renowned University at Albany, where he was able to continue his medical training. There, he learned about advanced surgery and medical research, demonstrating exceptional aptitude and characteristics of someone passionate about what he does.
Regarding his experience in the United States, Dr. Cedeño shared: “I was in the United States for almost eight years. The initial goal is always ‘I go, train and come back’, but life changes. At that time I had a job offer in the place where I trained, which I understood was a good academic experience and professional growth. At that time it was the most appropriate decision to continue practicing there.”
Dr. Cedeño elaborated on how his extended stay in the United States impacted his career and prospects: “During those years, my focus expanded significantly, I became involved in research projects and had the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most respected names in my field. These experiences not only enriched my knowledge and technical skills, but also shaped my approach to healthcare, emphasizing a more integrative and patient-centered perspective.”
He went on to highlight the importance of adapting and taking advantage of opportunities that arise along the way: “Sometimes the original plan to ‘train and come back’ is overtaken by the growth and learning opportunities we encounter along the way. The crucial thing is to stay open and flexible, allowing those experiences to shape the professional path one decides to follow.”
**Homecoming**
With a reflective look toward the future, Dr. Cedeño expressed his desire to apply what he learned in his native country: “Now, with a rich variety of experiences and a deep set of acquired skills, I feel that I am uniquely positioned to contribute significantly to the system of health in my country. “I am happy not only to bring back my knowledge, but also for the innovations and practices I have adopted during my time abroad.”
However, his quest for knowledge did not end in Albany, he sought new opportunities for learning and growth, which led him to the vibrant metropolis of Chicago, a city of vast opportunities, where he became an expert in robotic surgery, a discipline that would revolutionize his medical practice and take him to new heights in his career.
Despite his experiences abroad, his heart was always in his homeland and after almost eight years away from Puerto Rico, the time came to make a crucial decision: Return to the island. The specialist expressed: “The call of the island was persistent, like an inner compass that reminded me where I came from and where I wanted to go. Physical distance did not erase the warmth of the memories, nor did it extinguish the desire to contribute to the well-being of my people. It was a long and thoughtful process, with multiple variables at play. But in the end, the island’s call was stronger.”
**Contributions to the system health In Puerto Rico**
On his return he not only brought with him his experience and knowledge acquired abroad, but also a deep love for his country and its people. He was received with enthusiasm by the community Puerto Rico, which recognized his experience as a valuable asset for the health of the island.
Now, as the only non-cardiac thoracic surgeon and expert in robotic surgery in Puerto Rico, Dr. Cedeño is determined to make a significant difference in the lives of his patients. His dedication and passion for medicine, combined with his technical skill and exceptional training, made him the leader in his field.
Through his work at the Cardiovascular Center of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, Dr. Cedeño continues to raise the standards of medical care on the island and continues to leave an indelible mark on the community medical and in health public.
His story is an inspiring testimony of how talent, determination, and love of country can converge to make the world a better place.