CARDIOVASCULAR SURGERY DEPARTMENT

The Department of Cardiovascular Surgery is a specialized medical discipline focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of diseases and conditions affecting the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. It encompasses a wide range of surgical procedures and interventions aimed at treating various cardiovascular conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, congenital heart defects, thoracic aortic diseases, and lung diseases. Highly skilled and extensively trained cardiovascular surgeons lead this department and work closely with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive care to patients with cardiovascular disorders.
Some key aspects and functions of the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery include:

Cardiac Surgery: The department specializes in cardiac surgery, which includes surgical interventions on the heart and its associated structures. Cardiovascular surgeons perform procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), heart valve repair or replacement, congenital heart defect repairs, heart transplantation, and ventricular assist device (VAD) implantation. These surgeries aim to restore normal cardiac function, improve blood flow, and treat structural abnormalities.
Thoracic Surgery: The Department of Cardiovascular Surgery also includes thoracic surgery, which focuses on surgical interventions involving the lungs, chest wall, and other thoracic structures. This may include lung resections for lung cancer, lobectomy, pneumonectomy, chest tumor resections, and chest wall reconstructions. Thoracic surgeons collaborate with other specialists to manage thoracic diseases and improve respiratory function.
Preoperative Evaluation: Cardiovascular surgeons work closely with cardiologists and other healthcare professionals to evaluate patients before surgery. They review medical history, perform physical examinations, and order diagnostic tests, including imaging studies and cardiac catheterizations. This evaluation helps determine the patient’s suitability for surgery, identify risk factors, and guide the development of individualized treatment plans.
Intraoperative Care: During surgical procedures, cardiovascular surgeons lead the surgical team, which may include anesthesiologists, perfusionists, and specialized nurses. They perform the surgical procedure while closely monitoring the patient's vital signs, cardiovascular function, and overall health. Cardiovascular surgeons make critical decisions during surgery to ensure successful outcomes and patient safety.
Postoperative Care: After surgery, cardiovascular surgeons oversee the patient's postoperative care and recovery. They monitor progress, manage pain, address any complications, and provide guidance on rehabilitation. They collaborate with cardiology and pulmonology teams to develop long-term care plans and ensure continued cardiovascular health.
Research and Innovation: The Department of Cardiovascular Surgery actively engages in research and innovation to advance the field of cardiovascular surgery. Cardiovascular surgeons contribute to clinical trials, research studies, and technological advancements aimed at improving surgical techniques, developing new devices, and enhancing patient outcomes. These research efforts help drive innovation and improve the quality of care provided to patients.
Education and Training: Cardiovascular surgeons within the department also play an important role in education and training. They provide instruction and mentorship to medical students, residents, and fellows pursuing careers in cardiovascular surgery. Through lectures, surgical demonstrations, and hands-on training, they help shape the next generation of cardiovascular surgeons and contribute to the advancement of the field.

The Department of Cardiovascular Surgery is a vital component of healthcare institutions, working in collaboration with cardiologists, anesthesiologists, perfusionists, nurses, and other specialists to provide comprehensive and specialized care to patients with cardiovascular disease. The expertise and dedication of cardiovascular surgeons in this department contribute to improved outcomes, enhanced quality of life, and better long-term management of cardiovascular conditions.
Our Mission

The Department of Cardiovascular Surgery will be a pioneering division creating lifelong understanding of cardiovascular disease through multidisciplinary collaboration among clinicians and scientists by accomplishing the following:

• Exceptional compassionate, patient- and family-centered care

• Innovative science and discovery

• Excellence in education

Our Vision

The vision of the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery is to be the premier national academic cardiovascular unit for education and patient care.

ACADEMIC STAFF

Prof. Dr. Ali CİVELEK
Head of Department
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: 444-1-428 / 50010

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gökalp ALTUN
Faculty Member
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: 444-1-428 / 50010