Why patients choose Türkiye for CABG
Turkey (Türkiye) has become a leading destination for heart bypass surgery thanks to its combination of high-volume cardiac centers, board-certified surgeons, and modern hospital infrastructure. Many hospitals in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir feature hybrid operating rooms, 24/7 cardiac ICUs, and multidisciplinary heart teams—cardiac surgeons, interventional cardiologists, anesthesiologists, and perfusionists—working together to deliver consistent outcomes. For international patients, dedicated medical travel coordinators, interpreter services, and streamlined pre-op workups make the journey more manageable.
What CABG (heart bypass) actually does
Coronary artery bypass grafting creates new routes (“bypasses”) around blocked or narrowed coronary arteries so your heart muscle gets adequate oxygen-rich blood. Surgeons typically use the left internal mammary artery (LIMA), saphenous vein from the leg, or radial artery from the forearm to craft one or more grafts (single, double, triple, or quadruple bypass). CABG can be performed with the heart–lung machine (on-pump) or, in select cases, on a beating heart (off-pump).
Who is a candidate?
You may be considered for CABG in Türkiye if you have:
- Multivessel coronary artery disease (e.g., left main or proximal LAD involvement)
- Persistent angina, shortness of breath, or reduced exercise tolerance despite medication
- Prior stents with recurrent blockages or complex anatomy not suitable for PCI
- Diabetes with diffuse coronary disease
Only a full cardiac evaluation—ECG, echocardiography, coronary angiography/CTCA, and risk profiling—can confirm candidacy.
The CABG journey in Türkiye: step by step
1) Pre-arrival and assessment
International coordinators review your medical records, imaging, and medication list. You’ll receive a provisional plan and appointment schedule. Upon arrival, expect repeat or confirmatory tests (labs, chest imaging, echo, angiography as needed).
2) Surgical planning
Your surgeon discusses graft strategy (arterial vs. venous), on-pump vs. off-pump approach, expected graft number, and incision options (median sternotomy is standard; minimally invasive small thoracotomy is possible for certain cases like MIDCAB to the LAD).
3) Day of surgery
- Anesthesia & monitoring: general anesthesia, invasive monitoring lines.
- Graft harvesting: LIMA is often first choice; radial or saphenous vein harvested endoscopically where appropriate.
- Bypass creation: blocked segments are bypassed using fine sutures under magnification.
- Hemostasis & closure: drains are placed; the sternum is closed with wires or plates.
4) ICU and early recovery
Most patients spend the first 24–48 hours in a cardiac ICU. Pain control, early breathing exercises, and mobilization begin quickly to reduce complications.
5) In-hospital stay
Typical hospitalization is about a week, depending on comorbidities. You’ll receive a discharge plan covering wound care, activity limits, medication adjustments (antiplatelets, statins, beta-blockers), and a cardiac rehabilitation referral.
6) Follow-up and return home
Hospitals in Türkiye commonly provide tele-follow-ups and a comprehensive medical report for your cardiologist at home. Many programs can coordinate with local rehab centers.
Recovery timeline and tips
- Week 1–2: Fatigue is common. Walk several times a day; use a pillow for “sternal support” when coughing.
- Week 3–6: Gradual increase in walking distance and light household activity. Avoid heavy lifting until cleared.
- After 6–12 weeks: Many patients resume work (job-dependent) and moderate exercise.
- Long-term: Cardiac rehab, nutrition, blood pressure/lipid control, diabetes management, and smoking cessation are key to protect your grafts.
Risks and safety
All cardiac surgery carries risks, including bleeding, infection, arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), stroke, kidney issues, or graft occlusion over time. Glycemic control, smoking cessation, and adherence to medications reduce complications. Ask your surgeon about arterial grafting rates (e.g., routine LIMA use), stroke-prevention protocols, and ICU nurse-to-patient ratios.
How to choose a CABG center in Türkiye
When comparing CABG surgery in Turkey, use this checklist:
- Cardiac volumes: How many CABG cases per year? (Higher volumes often correlate with better outcomes.)
- Arterial graft expertise: Routine LIMA; experience with bilateral IMA or radial artery when indicated.
- Team and facilities: 24/7 cath lab access, dedicated cardiac ICU, perfusion team, hybrid OR capability.
- Quality metrics: Mortality, stroke, infection, and readmission rates; re-operation for bleeding.
- Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols: Early extubation, early mobilization.
- International patient services: visa support, interpreters, airport transfer, transparent treatment plans.
- Aftercare & telemedicine: Clear follow-up pathway with your home cardiologist.
CABG vs. stents (PCI): which is right for you?
- CABG advantages: Durable relief in multivessel/complex disease, especially with diabetes; multiple blockages treated in one operation.
- PCI advantages: Less invasive, shorter initial recovery; good for focal, discrete lesions.
- Real-world approach: A heart team reviews your angiography and comorbidities to recommend the safest, most effective strategy.
Cost transparency and what it includes
Hospitals may package CABG pricing to include pre-op tests, surgeon/anesthesiologist fees, OR time, ICU stay, ward room, medications, and immediate post-op imaging. Items that can be extra: extended ICU stay, unforeseen complications, extra imaging, additional grafts or procedures (e.g., valve repair), and accommodation for companions. Ask for a written, itemized quote and clarify refund/cancellation policies.
Preparing for travel and surgery
- Share complete medical records and a current medication list (especially blood thinners).
- Discuss allergies, sleep apnea, and dental issues (untreated infections can increase endocarditis risk).
- Plan for 2–3 weeks in Türkiye from pre-op to early post-op clearance, depending on your case.
- Arrange a support person for the first days after discharge.
- Organize travel insurance and a medical summary for your flight home.
Red flags to seek help fast (after discharge)
Call your care team urgently if you notice fever, worsening chest pain, shortness of breath at rest, leg swelling/asymmetry, wound redness or drainage, palpitations with dizziness, or sudden neurological symptoms.
