Herniated disk treatment at Lokman Hekim University Ankara Hospital

Lokman Hekim University Hospital in Ankara, Turkey provides comprehensive care for herniated discs. Patients can access services ranging from a diagnostic consultation package costing around $1,000–$1,500 to various surgical treatments. Surgical options like a discectomy cost around $6,345, while more extensive fusion procedures may cost between $9,846–$10,393. The department is led by neurosurgeon Dr. Cahit Kural, who brings 27 years of specialized experience.

Dr. Cahit Kural is a neurosurgeon with over 900 performed procedures. His extensive practice focuses on spinal conditions like herniated discs. He operates within a major university hospital setting equipped with six modern operating theaters.

Diagnostics at the Clinic

A full diagnostic assessment is the first step. This process typically includes:

• Consultation with a neurosurgeon for clinical evaluation.
• Brain or Spine MRI, which may cost around $440–$660.
• CT scan for detailed bone imaging, typically around $550–$880.
• Laboratory and blood tests to check overall health.

The clinic offers a combined consultation and diagnostics package. This bundle typically runs $1,000–$1,500 and consolidates these essential pre-treatment steps.

Surgical Treatment Options

The clinic provides several advanced surgical procedures for herniated discs. The choice depends on the disc's location and severity.

• Lumbar Discectomy (Open): This is a standard surgery to remove the herniated disc material. It involves a direct incision and usually requires a 2–3 day hospital stay.
• TLIF Fusion: This stands for Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion. It stabilizes the spine after disc removal and often involves a 4-night hospital stay.
• Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion: This procedure addresses herniated discs in the neck. It relieves pressure on nerves to reduce arm and neck pain. Hospitalization is typically around 6 nights.

Treatment Packages and Pricing

Surgical packages often include hospital stay, accommodation, and local transfers. This provides clarity for international patients.

A Discectomy package may cost around $6,345. It typically includes the operation and a 2-night hospital stay with follow-up care.

Another Herniated Disc Surgery package ranges from $5,980 to $8,150. It can cover the operation, 3 nights in the hospital, and 7 nights in a hotel with transfers.

For cervical spine issues, an Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion package is available. It may cost between $9,846 and $10,393. This package typically includes the surgery, 6 nights of hospitalization, and 3 nights in a hotel.

The accredited university hospital supports this care with significant infrastructure. It features a helipad for emergencies and 82 intensive care beds. For a precise evaluation and tailored treatment plan, consulting with the neurosurgical team is the recommended next step.