Cardiology & Heart Surgery
Heart care from a comprehensive cardiac check-up to bypass and valve surgery, planned with experienced cardiology teams.
Hospital stay
Around 1–10 days
Recommended stay in Türkiye
Around 3–21 days
Anaesthesia
Local with sedation to general
Return to daily activity
Around 1 week to 3 months
Approximate values — your doctor confirms them after assessing your case.
Cardiology & Heart Surgery
Cardiology and heart surgery cover the diagnosis and treatment of heart and blood vessel conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart valve disease and heart rhythm disorders. Care usually begins with a detailed assessment and, where needed, coronary angiography to image the heart's arteries. Depending on the findings, options may include medication, catheter-based procedures such as stents or ablation, or surgery such as bypass or valve operations.
The right treatment is decided by licensed cardiologists and cardiac surgeons who review all of your test results together. For suitable patients, valve procedures can be performed through smaller incisions or via a catheter, as with TAVI. Medical tourism is for planned care: if you have chest pain, sudden breathlessness or fainting, contact your local emergency services straight away.
Türkiye is a frequent choice for heart treatment, with modern catheterisation laboratories, dedicated cardiac intensive care units and experienced cardiology teams. Short waiting times are a real advantage for patients who do not want to delay planned treatment. At Trend Link, we coordinate the whole process for you, from reviewing your reports to follow-up after you return home.
Techniques & options
Comprehensive cardiac check-up
An assessment that may include a consultation, ECG, echocardiogram, exercise stress test and blood tests. Where needed, it can be supported by further tests such as Holter monitoring or CT coronary angiography.
Coronary angiography
A thin catheter is passed through an artery in the wrist or groin, and contrast dye is used to image the heart's arteries. The procedure shows whether any arteries are narrowed and to what degree.
Stents (PCI)
A narrowed or blocked coronary artery is opened with a balloon guided by a catheter and usually supported with a drug-eluting stent. The procedure is generally carried out under local anaesthetic with light sedation.
Coronary bypass surgery (CABG)
When several arteries are severely narrowed or a stent is not suitable, blood vessels taken from elsewhere in the body are used to route blood around the blockages. It is open-heart surgery performed under general anaesthetic.
Heart valve surgery and TAVI
Narrowed or leaking heart valves are repaired or replaced surgically. For suitable patients, minimally invasive surgery or TAVI, in which the aortic valve is replaced via a catheter, may be considered.
Arrhythmia treatment and ablation
An electrophysiology study locates the source of the abnormal rhythm, which may then be treated with catheter ablation. Where needed, a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) may also be planned.
Is it right for you?
- People with heart disease risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking or a family history, who want a thorough assessment
- Those advised by their cardiologist to have further tests for chest pain, tightness or breathlessness on exertion
- Patients who have been recommended a stent or bypass after angiography and are seeking planned treatment
- People diagnosed with valve disease such as aortic stenosis or mitral regurgitation
- Those with rhythm disorders, such as atrial fibrillation or palpitations, not well controlled by medication
- Patients whose doctor considers their general health suitable for travel and the planned procedure
Recovery timeline
Days 1–2
After angiography or a stent, the access site is monitored and most patients go home the same day or the next. After bypass or valve surgery, the first days are spent under close monitoring in intensive care.
Week 1
After a stent, most people return to light daily activity within a few days. After open-heart surgery, patients move to the ward and build up activity gradually with breathing exercises and short walks.
Weeks 2–6
After bypass, heavy lifting and driving are restricted for a period while the breastbone heals. A cardiac rehabilitation programme recommended by your doctor can often begin during this time.
Weeks 6–12
Most patients who have had open-heart surgery return to most of their usual activities during this period. Taking medication as prescribed, attending check-ups and healthy lifestyle habits remain important for long-term heart health.
Your treatment journey
Review of reports and tests
You send us your ECG, echocardiogram, angiography images and existing reports, and a cardiology specialist carries out an initial review.
Treatment plan and written quote
You receive a treatment plan and written quote covering the proposed tests or procedure, the expected hospital stay and how long to stay in Türkiye.
Travel and arrival
Visa support, VIP transfers, hotel and interpreter are arranged, and your patient coordinator meets you when you arrive in Istanbul.
Assessment and treatment
Your cardiologist examines you and the necessary tests are carried out. The procedure or operation goes ahead once your doctor has set the final treatment plan based on this assessment.
Discharge and aftercare
You receive your medication, cardiac rehabilitation advice and follow-up schedule in writing. Once you are home, your coordinator helps you stay in contact with your doctor.
What affects the cost
You receive a written, itemised quote once your reports have been reviewed — before you travel.
- The type of test or procedure (check-up, angiography, stent, bypass, valve surgery or ablation)
- The number and type of stents, or the type of replacement valve
- The approach used (catheter-based, minimally invasive or open surgery)
- Time spent in intensive care and the overall hospital stay
- Other existing health conditions and any additional tests required
- Length of accommodation, a companion and travel services such as transfers
Frequently asked questions
Will I need rehabilitation after heart surgery?
Cardiac rehabilitation is generally recommended after bypass, valve surgery or a heart attack. It combines supervised exercise with guidance on diet, medication and risk factors. The first steps begin in hospital with breathing exercises and short walks, and you may be advised to continue the programme at a local centre once you are home.
How soon can I fly after my procedure?
This depends on the procedure and how you are recovering. After planned angiography or a stent, a few days is often enough, whereas after bypass or valve surgery at least 10–14 days is commonly advised before flying. Your flight date is agreed with your doctor after your follow-up examination.
What are the risks of heart procedures?
Angiography and stenting can cause bleeding or bruising at the access site, kidney or allergic reactions to the contrast dye and, rarely, damage to a blood vessel or a heart attack. Open-heart surgery carries more serious risks, including infection, bleeding, rhythm disturbances, stroke and kidney problems. Your doctor will explain the risks and likely benefits that apply to you before any procedure.
Who decides whether I need a stent or bypass?
The decision is based on your angiography findings, the number and location of narrowings, how well your heart pumps and any other conditions such as diabetes. In complex cases, a joint assessment by a cardiologist and a cardiac surgeon is preferred. The likely benefits and risks of each option are explained to you clearly.
Can I travel to Türkiye for an emergency heart problem?
No. Medical tourism is for planned treatment. If you have chest pain, sudden breathlessness, fainting or a suspected heart attack, contact your local emergency services immediately. Once your condition is stable, we can help you plan further treatment options.
How is follow-up handled once I am home?
When you leave hospital you receive your discharge summary, medication list and follow-up schedule in writing. It is important not to stop medicines such as blood thinners without your doctor's advice. You can share results from check-ups with your local cardiologist with your treating doctor through Trend Link, and an online consultation can be arranged if needed.
Connect Today For A Better Tomorrow
Share your reports and expectations with us, and after a specialist review we will prepare your personalised treatment plan and written quote.