Spine Surgery in Ankara, Turkey

Is spine surgery in Ankara safe for international patients?

Yes, spine surgery in Ankara is highly safe when performed by board-certified neurosurgeons in accredited facilities. Ankara’s top hospitals are JCI (Joint Commission International) accredited, meaning they meet the same rigorous safety and hygiene standards as the best hospitals in the U.S. and Europe. Surgeons in Ankara are typically members of the Turkish Neurosurgical Society and often hold memberships in European or American associations. Furthermore, the use of advanced intraoperative neuro-monitoring (IONM) ensures that the patient's nervous system is protected throughout the entire surgery, significantly minimizing the risk of nerve damage.

How long is the recovery period for spine surgery?

Recovery varies depending on the type of procedure. For minimally invasive procedures like microdiscectomy, patients are often walking the same day and can return to light desk work within 1-2 weeks. For major surgeries like spinal fusion or scoliosis correction, the hospital stay is typically 3-5 days. Full recovery—where you can resume strenuous exercise—usually takes 3 to 6 months. In Ankara, clinics place a heavy emphasis on early mobilization and structured physical therapy, which is proven to speed up the healing process and prevent complications like blood clots.

What are the success rates for spine surgery in Ankara?

Ankara’s premier neurosurgical centers report success rates that are on par with international benchmarks, often exceeding 90% for common procedures like lumbar discectomy and spinal fusion. These high success rates are attributed to the combination of veteran surgical skill and the latest medical technology, such as robotic-guided navigation and high-definition microscopes. Success is defined not only by the surgical correction but also by the significant reduction in patient pain scores and the restoration of physical function, both of which are carefully tracked during follow-up appointments.

Will my spine surgeon in Ankara speak English?

Yes, the vast majority of spine surgeons in Ankara who treat international patients are fluent in English. Many Turkish medical professionals have received a portion of their training abroad or participate in international research communities where English is the primary language. In addition to the surgeons, major hospitals in Ankara have dedicated international patient departments with bilingual coordinators who are available 24/7 to assist with translation, medical records, and any questions you may have during your stay, ensuring clear and transparent communication.

When is it safe to fly home after spine surgery?

Generally, surgeons in Ankara recommend waiting 10 to 14 days after spine surgery before flying back to your home country. This allows time for the initial surgical incisions to heal, for the reduction of acute post-operative swelling, and for a final follow-up check-up. Flying too early increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Most surgeons will provide you with a "Fit to Fly" certificate and may recommend wearing compression stockings and moving your legs frequently during the flight. Always follow your surgeon’s specific timeline, as it depends on the complexity of your individual procedure.

What is minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS)?

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS) is a type of surgery that uses smaller incisions than traditional "open" surgery. Surgeons in Ankara are experts in this technique, utilizing specialized instruments and imaging like endoscopes and microscopes to see the surgical area. This approach minimizes damage to the surrounding muscles and tissues, leading to less blood loss, a lower risk of infection, and a significantly faster recovery period. MISS is frequently used in Ankara for treating herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and even certain types of spinal fusions.

What are the risks of spine surgery?

Like any major surgery, spine surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, and reactions to anesthesia. Specific to the spine, there are risks of nerve injury, spinal fluid leaks, or "failed back syndrome" (where the pain persists after surgery). Ankara hospitals mitigate these risks by using intraoperative neuro-monitoring (IONM), which allows surgeons to monitor nerve signals in real-time. Additionally, the use of robotic guidance and advanced imaging helps ensure that screws and implants are placed with mathematical accuracy, further reducing the likelihood of complications.

How much can I save on spine surgery in Ankara?

Patients traveling to Ankara for spine surgery can typically save between 50% and 75% compared to the costs in the United States, UK, or Canada. For instance, a complex spinal fusion that might cost $80,000 in the U.S. can often be performed in Ankara for $15,000 to $25,000, including the hospital stay and premium implants. These savings are due to lower administrative and labor costs in Turkey, not a reduction in medical quality. Turkey’s exchange rate also provides significant purchasing power for international patients using dollars, pounds, or euros.

Can I get a second opinion before traveling to Ankara?

Absolutely. Most top spine clinics in Ankara offer a remote review of your medical records. You can send your recent MRI, CT scans, and medical history to the surgical team through PlacidWay. The surgeons will review your case and provide a preliminary treatment plan and quote. This "digital second opinion" allows you to discuss your options with the Turkish surgeons and ask questions before you ever book a flight. It ensures that you are a suitable candidate for the procedure and that you have a clear understanding of the expected outcomes.

What qualifications should I look for in an Ankara spine surgeon?

When choosing a surgeon in Ankara, verify that they are board-certified by the Turkish Neurosurgical Society or the Turkish Society of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. Look for surgeons who hold international memberships in organizations like EuroSpine or the North American Spine Society (NASS). Experience is also crucial; ask how many procedures of your specific type they perform annually. Finally, choose a surgeon who operates in a JCI-accredited hospital, as this ensures they have access to the latest technology and follow standardized safety protocols for international patient care.

Board-Certified Neurosurgeons

Expertise in Neurological Spine Care

Scoliosis & Deformity Experts

Specialized in Complex Reconstruction

• • Rigorous Provider Vetting: We pre-screen medical centers in Ankara to ensure they meet high standards of JCI accreditation, safety, and neurosurgical experience.
• • Direct Surgeon Consultations: We facilitate initial video or phone consultations, so you can speak directly with your potential neurosurgeon to discuss your MRI results.
• • Cost Transparency: We help you obtain customized, no-obligation quotes from multiple clinics, allowing you to compare inclusive packages clearly.
• • Secure Medical Records: We provide a secure platform for sharing your diagnostic images (MRI/CT) with the surgical teams in Ankara for accurate assessment.
• • Dedicated Patient Advocacy: Our team is available to guide you through the inquiry process, helping you ask the right questions about implants and surgical techniques.
• • Genuine Outcome Data: We provide access to authentic patient reviews and success stories to help you make an educated, data-driven decision.