Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) surgery : Cost in Turkey 2025

What is coronary artery bypass surgery?

The coronary arteries are the vessels that supply your heart with oxygen. When they are narrowed or blocked, the risk of a heart attack increases considerably. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a surgical procedure designed to bypass these blocked arteries. During the procedure, the surgeon uses a healthy vessel, typically taken from the leg (saphenous vein) or the chest (mammary artery),to create an alternative pathway for blood to reach the heart muscle.

This procedure is often recommended for patients with:

• Advanced coronary disease, which is characterized by several narrowed or blocked arteries.
• A history of myocardial infarction, particularly if there are severe lesions.
• Persistent chest pain (angina pectoris),despite treatment.
• High risk of complications, particularly in patients with diabetes or heart failure.

The goal of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery is to improve oxygenation, reduce pain, and lower the risk of heart attack.

Have you received a diagnosis or medical advice concerning bypass surgery? Don't hesitate to ask for a second opinion or a personalized quote from our teams in Turkey. Reliable, rapid, and customized support can make all the difference.

Coronary artery bypass grafting techniques in Turkey

There is no single method for performing coronary artery bypass surgery. Several techniques are used depending on the patient's health, the number of affected arteries, and the associated risks.

Open-heart bypass with extracorporeal circulation (ECC)

This classic method has been used for decades and is still considered the most common.

During the procedure, the heart is temporarily stopped with a cooling solution while a heart-lung machine takes over to ensure blood circulation and oxygenation of the body. This enables the surgeon to work on a stationary heart, offering excellent visibility.

Off-pump bypass surgery

This modern alternative to the conventional technique enables the operation to be performed without stopping the heart or recourse to extracorporeal circulation.

The surgeon uses a special device to stabilize the operating area while keeping the heart beating. This method limits the risk of inflammation and neurological complications.

This technique is indicated for:

• Frail or elderly patients
• Increased risk of stroke or kidney damage.
• Simple bypasses (one to two vessels).

Minimally invasive surgery

This technique involves accessing the heart through small incisions without completely opening the sternum. It is often used for single-bypass operations, particularly between the left internal mammary artery and the anterior interventricular artery (LAD).

This technique offers several advantages:

• Less post-operative pain.
• Less scarring.
• Faster recovery.

Robotic-assisted coronary bypass

It is the most innovative technique. It uses a robotic system, like the Da Vinci, which enables surgeons to operate with great precision through tiny incisions.

This method is not yet widely used and is reserved for carefully selected cases.

Stages of coronary bypass surgery in Turkey

Are you considering coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery in Turkey? Here's a clear overview of each stage:

Personalized organization

The process begins remotely, in the comfort of your own home. You will speak with a dedicated medical advisor who will guide you through the process. You share your recent examinations (ECG, coronary angiography, etc.) at this stage, which enables our partner cardiologists to assess your case and prepare for your arrival under the best possible conditions. We organize your dates, transfers, airport pickup, and accommodation for complete peace of mind.

Assessment and preparation for surgery

As soon as you arrive in Turkey, you will be welcomed and escorted to the clinic or hospital. Before the operation, you will meet the medical team: the cardiac surgeon, cardiologist, anesthesiologist, and specialized nurses.

You will undergo a complete checkup, including blood tests, an ultrasound, a CT scan or an MRI if necessary, and an anesthetic consultation. The purpose of this stage is to confirm the procedure's feasibility and ensure your safety.

Process of the operation

Coronary artery bypass surgery is performed under general anesthesia and generally lasts between three and six hours. It is performed in a well-equipped operating room by a multidisciplinary team.

After the operation, you will be transferred to an intensive care unit for 24 to 48 hours of close monitoring. Particular attention is paid to your comfort and recovery.

Hospital recovery

You will remain in the hospital for 5 to 7 days, depending on your progress. During this time, you will receive support for pain management, gradual breathing resumption (respiratory physiotherapy),and gentle mobilization.

Every effort is made to prevent complications and ensure a smooth recovery.

Convalescence and medical supervision

After being discharged from the hospital, you can stay in a medical hotel or rest clinic depending on your needs. There, you will continue to benefit from personalized monitoring by our nurses and doctors. This is an important stage for regaining your strength before returning home.

Before leaving, you will receive a detailed medical report. You will also receive specific recommendations for the weeks ahead regarding diet, treatment, and physical activity. If you need follow-up care, we have everything in place to keep you in touch with the specialists.

Most patients resume normal activities within six to eight weeks after surgery, experiencing a significant improvement in quality of life and a reduction in symptoms.

Would you like to learn more about your treatment in Turkey? Contact us for a personalized quote or a free, no-obligation second opinion. At Turquie Santé, we take care of you as if you were already here.

Risks of coronary artery bypass surgery

As with any surgery, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) carries certain risks, though they are rare in a well-supervised medical environment. Possible complications include:

• Postoperative bleeding or infection.
• Atrial fibrillation, a frequent but often transient heart rhythm disorder.
• Heart attack during or after surgery.
• Neurological lesions are very rare.
• Heart failure or pleural effusion.
• Mild side effects include pain, loss of appetite, slight fever, and fatigue.

Rest assured that these risks are well-known and closely monitored by specialized teams in Turkey who apply strict protocols to minimize any complications.

Goals of cardiac rehabilitation after bypass surgery

Coronary artery bypass surgery is a crucial step in managing cardiovascular disease, but it's only the beginning. The next essential step is cardiac rehabilitation, a supervised program designed to gradually strengthen your heart, prevent complications, and help you regain confidence in your abilities.

The program has several aims:

• Improve cardiac function.
• Increase exercise tolerance.
• Better control risk factors such as hypertension or diabetes.
• Establishes new, sustainable lifestyle habits.

This comprehensive approach works on both the body and the mind.

Phases of cardiac rehabilitation in Turkey

There are three phases of cardiac rehabilitation in Turkey:

Hospital phase: Immediately after surgery

This phase begins as soon as you are admitted to the hospital after surgery. The goal at this stage is to gently get you moving again. We start by helping you get up and walk a few steps, as well as breathe more freely through adapted exercises. We closely monitor your progress to avoid complications such as phlebitis or infection.

Supervised rehabilitation (in a specialized center)

The second phase takes place in a rehabilitation center on an outpatient or residential basis, depending on your needs. It generally lasts between three and six weeks after your discharge from the hospital. You will benefit from multidisciplinary support, including adapted physical exercises (bike, mat, and gentle gymnastics),medical and nutritional follow-up, and practical workshops on smoking cessation, stress management, and balanced nutrition.

Psychological support is also available to help you through this transition.

Home rehabilitation

The third phase takes place at home and involves working independently, but with ongoing support. You will gradually resume your daily activities while continuing a physical maintenance program and maintaining regular contact with your cardiologist. The goal is to stabilize your progress and maintain the healthy habits you've acquired.

Recovery time varies from person to person, but on average, you can resume light physical activity between four and six weeks after surgery. It is often possible to return to work after six to eight weeks, especially if the job is not physically demanding. As for resuming sexual activity, this can generally be considered as early as four weeks, depending on individual comfort and recovery. Full autonomy is often regained around three months.

Studies have shown that patients who strictly adhere to their rehabilitation program reduce their risk of having another heart attack by 30%. They also return to an active life sooner and enjoy longer, healthier lives.

Personalized care with Turquie Santé

The information in this article is for informational purposes only. It in no way replaces a medical consultation or personalized diagnosis. Only a healthcare professional can accurately assess your condition and guide you toward the most appropriate treatment.

If you would like more information about your situation or the opinion of a qualified cardiologist or cardiovascular surgeon, we can connect you with our partner hospitals in Turkey.

With the support of Turquie Santé, you can benefit from a free teleconsultation to receive an initial opinion or organize a medical stay in complete confidence.