Cost-Effective Spine Surgery in Turkey: A Complete Guide
Get relief from persistent back pain with safe & affordable spine surgery in Turkey. Read more!
What Is the Cost of Spine Surgery in Turkey?
The cost of spine surgery in Turkey starts at € 4,477. However, on average, the same treatment starts at € 19,700 in the UK.[1]
While in the US, the price for the same surgery can even go up to € 98,500.[2]
The cost includes:
- Doctor’s visit
- Medication fees
- Translator fees
- Roundtrip airport transfer charges
- Routine pre-op anesthesia exams and tests
- 3 meals a day during hospitalization
- Hospitalization fees for the patient + one companion
The cost excludes:
- Accommodation
- Food outside of the treatment plan
Related Sources: Spine Surgery in Turkey
Find our easy and complete guides on spine surgery in other destinations right here.
Spine Surgery Abroad, Spine Surgery in India, Spine Surgery in Korea
How Can International Patients Get Spine Surgery in Turkey?
Our medical tourism advisors connect with international patients and help them find the right surgery program or hospital for their spinal issues.
First Touch Point With Our Medical Advisors
You can talk to our team about your spine issues, and we will review your medical history. If necessary, you will be scheduled for a hospital visit in Turkey for evaluation.
The reports can be shared via Dropbox, we transfer, and drive-uploaded PDFs. They typically include:
- Spine scans
- X-ray
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
- CT Scan (Computer Tomography)
- Electromyogram (EMG)
- Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)
X-ray
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
CT Scan
Our medical advisors discuss with partner hospitals whether a back surgery is required. Surgery is the last resort for a spine issue if medications and other non-invasive methods don't work.
Based on your reports and further tests, if surgery is required, then a comprehensive treatment plan is chalked out.
Treatment Timeline for Spine Surgery in Turkey
Here’s a timeline for your treatment in Turkey-
| Timeline | Estimated Duration |
| Pre-operation and examinations | 1-2 days |
| Surgery | 2-5 hours |
| Post-operative care and recovery | Depends on the surgery type and patient |
| Total estimated duration of stay | 10-14 days |
Types of Spine Surgeries in Turkey
Explore the various types of spine surgery to know your options and recovery better:
1. Scoliosis Surgery
2. Posterior Discectomy
3. Microdiscectomy
4. Lumbar Discectomy
5. Vertebroplasty
6. Spinal Fusion
7. Anterior Cervical Discectomy
8. Disc Replacement
Scoliosis Surgery
This surgery stabilizes and straightens the spine using rods and screws. To learn more, check out our detailed guide on Scoliosis Correction Surgery in Turkey.
Scoliosis Surgery
Posterior Discectomy
This surgery involves removing part or all of a damaged disc via a back incision.
Posterior Discectomy
Microdiscectomy
This procedure is a minimally invasive surgery to remove part of a herniated disc.
Microdiscectomy
Vertebroplasty
It is a minimally invasive procedure for treating spine fractures.
Vertebroplasty
Spinal Fusion
This surgery permanently joins two or more vertebrae for better stability.
Spinal Fusion
Anterior Cervical Discectomy
A front neck incision removes a damaged neck disc.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy
Disc Replacement
A damaged spinal disc is replaced with an artificial one.
Disc Replacement
Hear from our expert spine surgeon as he discusses scoliosis and its treatments!
Spine Scoliosis Surgery Treatment in Turkey
Procedure: Spine Surgery in Turkey
Backbone surgery in Turkey generally follows a standard procedure, though specific methods can differ.
Here’s a simplified overview of the usual steps involved in the surgery.
How Is Spine Surgery Performed?
Here's an overview of the process for back surgery in Turkey:
Steps Involved in Spine Surgery
Note- Please note that this is a general overview. The specific steps and techniques can vary based on the type of spine surgery you are having.
Conditions Treated Using Back Bone Surgery in Turkey
Depending on the condition of your spinal health, opting for spine surgery will address various spinal conditions, including:
1. Herniated Disc
2. Scoliosis
3. Spinal Fractures
4. Spine Tumors
5. Degenerative Vertebrae
6. Spine Infections
7. Chronic Back Pain
Herniated Disc
This happens when a spinal disc's inner gel pushes through its outer layer, causing pain.
Herniated Disc
Scoliosis
It is a medical condition where the spine curves sideways, forming an "S" or "C" shape rather than a straight line.
Scoliosis
Spinal Fractures
These are cracks in the vertebrae due to trauma or from conditions like osteoporosis.
Spinal Fractures
Spine Tumors
These abnormal growths develop within or near the spinal column. They can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Spine Tumors
Degenerative Vertebrae
This refers to the wear and tear or breakdown of the vertebrae in the spine due to aging or other factors.
Degenerative Vertebrae
Spine Infections
Infections in the bones, discs, or surrounding spinal tissues.
Spine Infections
Chronic Back Pain
Persistent or recurring back pain lasting over three months.
Chronic Back Pain
Recovery and Care
Proper recovery is crucial for healing your surgical wounds. The recovery time varies by individual. It depends on the surgery's severity, type, and your health.
For optimal results, follow a strict aftercare routine. Here are some tips:
- Avoid driving and limit sitting to 20-30 minutes in the first two weeks.
- Ensure a comfortable sleep posture and squat rather than bend at the waist.
- Refrain from lifting heavy objects.
- Wear a brace if advised by your doctor.
Reasons You Require Spine Surgery
In a recent study by WHO, low back pain impacted 619 million people worldwide in 2020. This number is estimated to rise to 843 million by 2050.[3]
Spine issues can stem from factors like low activity or smoking. A sedentary lifestyle weakens spine muscles and increases stress on vertebrae and discs.
Spine surgery is required because it helps restore mobility and improves your overall quality of life.
Risks and Complications: Spine Surgery in Turkey
Although spine surgery is usually considered safe, in the rarest of rare cases, there might be some risks and complications.
Some common risks involved are:
- Infections: There’s a risk of infection at the back where surgery is performed.
- Nerve Damage: During the surgery, there’s a minor chance of nerve damage that could lead to numbness and weakness.
- Blood Clots: There’s a minor chance of blood clotting post-surgery.
- Anesthesia Risk: Complications related to anesthesia might arise during surgery.
- Incomplete Pain Relief: Pain relief might not be as expected after surgery.
- Extended Recovery: Sometimes, the recovery period may be lengthy.
Success Rate of Spine Surgery in Turkey
The success rate of spine surgery is high, especially for lumbar microdiscectomy.
The success of your surgery greatly depends on your efforts to adhere to post-operative care and healing.
With recent advancements in robotic systems for spine surgery, Turkey has slowly made a name for itself as one of the reliable destinations to get your surgery done.
Why Get Spine Surgery in Turkey?
Turkey is not just famous as a tourist destination but has slowly gained importance for its medical tourism.[4]
But why Turkey, you ask?
Our partner doctors bring years of experience. They are also active members of international associations and boards.
Enjoy advanced technology such as robotic surgery and 3D Skeletal System Imaging in our partner hospitals.
Our hospitals are accredited by JCI and NABH, upholding the highest global standards.
Benefit from multilingual staff and comprehensive support plans during your stay in Turkey.
Experience world-class care without breaking the bank.
Turkey, known for its rich culture and history, is a top travel destination with diverse languages.
Choose MTC for your spine surgery and get treated by experts. From your first consultation to post-operative care, we walk with you at every step of your treatment.
Overview: Back Bone Surgery in Turkey
Turkey has become a haven for affordable spine surgery for many in recent years, allowing countless to fulfill their dreams of a healthy spine.
Spine Health and Surgery
As per reports from the National Spinal Cord Injury Association, up to 450,000 people in the U.S. live with spinal cord injuries, while other organizations estimate the number to be around 250,000.[5]
Additionally, approximately 17,000 new spinal cord injuries are recorded annually in the U.S. This number will skyrocket even further.[6]
This indicates a high need for bettering spine health using non-surgical and surgical methods.
How To Reach Turkey
Whether you're from the USA or the UK, traveling to Turkey for spine surgery is simple and convenient.
Find below some direct flights to Turkey from the UK and the U.S.
| City/ Country | Destination | Time |
| Heathrow Airport (LHR), London | Istanbul Airport (IST), Istanbul | 4 hours |
| Edinburgh Airport (EDI) | Istanbul Airport (IST), Istanbul | 4 hours 25 minutes |
| Chicago O'Hare International
Chicago |
Istanbul Airport ( IST), Istanbul | 10 hours 25 minutes |
| London Gatwick Airport (LGW) | Antalya Airport (AYT) | 4 hours 20 minutes |
| Manchester Airport (MAN) | Antalya Airport (AYT) | 4 hours 30 minutes |
| New York (JFK) | Istanbul Airport ( IST), Istanbul | 9 hours 40 minutes |
| Los Angeles ( LAX) | Istanbul Airport ( IST), Istanbul | 13 hours 10 minutes |
A few of our partner hospitals are located in Antalya and Bursa. Here’s how to get there for a seamless treatment.
Antalya
- Travel: Frequent flights available from Istanbul
- Distance: 695.5 km from Istanbul
- Journey Time: Depends on your flight duration.
Bursa
- Travel: Easily accessible by road from Istanbul Airport
- Distance: Approx. 155 km from Istanbul Airport
- Journey Time: 2-3 hours
- Route: Scenic drive through Turkish countryside.
Tourist Attractions in Turkey
Visa Information
Here is the visa information that will help you plan your trip.
- If you are a US citizen, ordinary passport holders are exempted from visas for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
- If you are a British citizen, you can visit and stay in Turkey for up to 90 days (within 180 days) without requiring a visa.
- Ensure your passport remains valid for at least 180 days beyond your planned travel date.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Turkey[7]
Best Hospitals for Spine Surgery in Turkey
Medical Park has 25 hospitals in 17 cities, employing over 14,000 staff members. The group specializes in oncology, cardiology, and organ transplantation.
Over 3,683 organ transplants, including 3,447 kidney and 202 liver transplants, were perfor
- JCI Accredited
- 57+ Departments
- 31+ Years of Excellence
Istanbul, Turkey
It operates clinics in cities like Kemer, Belek, and Antalya and houses a laboratory and research institute.
The hospital collaborates with Johns Hopkins Medical Center (USA), allowing for the exchange of medical expertise.
Anadolu also supports the edu
- ISO Certified
- JCI Accredited
- ESMO Certified
Best Surgeons for Spine Surgery in Turkey
Our partner surgeons in Turkey have over 16 years of experience.
They are members of top international organizations like the European Board of Orthopedics & Traumatology and the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies (EANS).
Our motto is to connect you to highly skilled and certified professionals who ensure you receive quality spine surgery care.
Dr. Nevzat Selim Gokay
Accredited by the EBOT, Dr. Gökay is a highly experienced orthopedic surgeon in Istanbul.
Dr. Gökay has been the Deputy Director of Physical Education and Sports at Istanbul Esenyurt University and Head of Coach Education.
He has also been honored with the title of Professor.
Education
Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University
Memberships
- International Cartilage Repair Society
- European Board of Orthopedics & Traumatology
- Turkish Association of Orthopedics and Traumatology
Dr. Mehmet Çaglar Berk
Dr. Mehmet is a neurosurgeon with dual fellowship training in Stereotactic, Functional & Restorative Neurosurgery and Pediatric Neurosurgery.
In 2021, Dr. Berk achieved a significant milestone by performing Oregon's first robotic spine neurosurgery.
He is recognized as the only neurosurgeon in Oregon with dual residency and dual fellowship training, establishing him as one of the few in the US with such extensive qualifications.
Education
Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
Memberships
- Turkish Board of Neurosurgery (TND)
- American Board of Neurological Surgery (ABNS)
- European Association of Neurosurgical Societies (EANS)
Dr. Gökhan Akdemir
Prof. Dr. Gökhan Akdemir, a neurosurgeon with over 28 years of expertise, is part of the Neurosurgery Department at ISU Medical Park.
His extensive training includes a certification in Microsurgery from Yeditepe University in Istanbul (2012) and specialization in Skull Base and Microanatomy from the University of Florida, Gainesville (2002).
Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a commitment to advancing neurosurgical techniques and patient care.
Education
Hacettepe University Institute of Health Sciences-2010
Memberships
- Member of the Turkish Neurology Society
- Member of the Turkish Neurosurgical Society
- Turkish Neuro-Oncology Society Founding Member, 2009 Congress Of Neurological Surgeons, USA
Dr. Mustafa Kılıç
Dr. Mustafa Kılıç has over 17 years of experience specializing in brain tumors, spinal disorders, and vascular abnormalities.
He is skilled in advanced neuro-oncology and spinal surgery techniques. His clinical practice and research have significantly contributed to the field of neurosurgery.
Education
Medicine Eskişehir Osmangazi University
Is Spine Surgery Safe in Turkey?
Yes, back surgery in Turkey is considered safe. Our extensive research on hospitals and surgical procedures ensures safe and affordable care.
Turkish hospitals are internationally accredited and staffed with highly qualified surgeons specializing in quality treatments.
Conclusion
Choose spine surgery in Turkey for exceptional care at affordable prices. Benefit from quality treatment in top hospitals.
Contact MTC today for a free consultation!
FAQs
Do US citizens need health insurance in Turkey?
While travel insurance isn't mandatory for Turkey, your US health insurance won't cover you there.
That's why it is advisable to buy travel medical insurance for a comfortable medical trip to Turkey.
How much is spinal surgery in Turkey?
Backbone surgery in Turkey ranges from USD 5,000$ to USD 46,000$. The cost varies based on the type of surgery you choose.
References
- Science Direct: Cost of Spinal Surgery in United Kingdom
- Statista: Cost of Spinal Surgery in USA
- WHO: Data on Lower back Pain
- Research Gate: MEDICAL TOURISM: AN ASSESSMENT ON TURKEY
- AANS: Spinal Cord Injury Stats
- University of Sydney: Number of people to affected by Spinal Issues in the future
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Turkey: Visa Information For Foreigners
