Two International Awards for Acıbadem University at Prestigious Medical Congress

Haber tarihi: 21/07/2025

Last update date: 22.07.2025

The live surgeries performed at Acıbadem Altunizade Hospital attracted major interest during the 25th Annual Scientific Meeting of the International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery (ISMICS), held in Istanbul with the participation of some of the world’s leading cardiothoracic surgical teams. Acıbadem University School of Medicine’s Cardiovascular Surgery Research Group was honored with two awards at the event.

Held in Istanbul, the 25th ISMICS Congress is one of the most prestigious gatherings in the medical world, focusing on advancements in minimally invasive techniques and robotic surgery. Nearly a thousand international experts attended the congress, and live broadcasts of two surgeries performed at Acıbadem Altunizade Hospital left a lasting impression on participants. Additionally, Prof. Dr. Şahin Şenay, Head of Cardiovascular Surgery at Acıbadem University School of Medicine, was elected General Secretary of ISMICS for the 2026–2029 term.

Prof. Dr. Şenay noted that hosting the congress in Istanbul was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Acıbadem Health Group’s cardiovascular surgery teams and the Turkish Society of Cardiovascular Surgery, emphasizing Turkey’s significant progress in medical sciences.

“Leading surgeons from top global institutions such as Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic attended the congress. Focused on minimally invasive and robotic surgery, they shared their experiences, providing valuable insights. It was also a great opportunity for our Turkish colleagues to engage in meaningful professional exchange, ultimately benefiting our patients,” said Prof. Dr. Şenay.

LIVE SURGERIES PERFORMED

Highlighting how technological advancements have revolutionized cardiothoracic surgery, particularly in robotic applications, Prof. Dr. Şenay stated that robotic techniques are now widely used in bypass operations, valve surgeries, cardiac tumors, congenital heart defects, and treating arrhythmias. He emphasized the patient benefits of such procedures, including minimal scarring, reduced bleeding and infection risk, and faster recovery times.

“At Acıbadem Altunizade Hospital’s Heart Center, we performed two live surgeries. One was a minimally invasive aortic valve replacement conducted through a small incision under the armpit without opening the chest. It was led by renowned Italian surgeon Marco di Eusaino, and our team participated in the operation,” said Prof. Dr. Şenay.

“The second surgery was a robotic mitral valve replacement. The robotic instruments used in these surgeries offer superior dexterity, even beyond the natural movement of a human wrist, significantly enhancing surgical precision. Both operations were streamed live to the congress audience, receiving highly positive feedback from fellow surgeons.”

Prof. Dr. Şenay also emphasized that beyond surgical innovations, technological developments are shaping the future of medical care.

“As a country, it is crucial not only to use these technologies but also to contribute to their advancement through scientific research,” he said.

TWO AWARDS TO ACIBADEM UNIVERSITY

Dr. Zeynep Sıla Özcan, Coordinator of the Cardiovascular Surgery Research Group and a member of the ISMICS 2025 Coordination Committee, underlined the importance of the congress, especially for residents and medical specialization students.

“We held two dedicated sessions for residents over two days, introducing them to minimally invasive and robotic surgical techniques early in their careers. These trainings are essential for integrating robotics into future clinical practice,” she said.

Dr. Özcan also expressed pride in receiving two scientific awards at the congress:

“Our team at Acıbadem University won awards for two separate studies — one focusing on robotic coronary bypass and valve surgeries, and the other on improving safety in robotic procedures. The award-winning research was conducted by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Murat Baştopçu and İbrahim Gökçe.”

THE MOST PARTICIPATED CONGRESS TO DATE

Prof. Dr. Husam Balkhy, President of ISMICS and a global pioneer in minimally invasive surgery, praised the congress, stating:

“Istanbul is a beautiful city and a major global hub, easily accessible from anywhere in the world. Dr. Şenay’s tireless efforts were also key to bringing the congress to Istanbul. This event allowed professionals to learn, exchange experiences, and explore innovative surgical techniques.”

He added that research presented during the congress would be published in Innovations, ISMICS’s peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancements in cardiac surgery.

“This was our most attended congress yet, with nearly 1,000 participants, including surgeons, healthcare professionals, and representatives from medical technology companies,” said Prof. Dr. Balkhy.

Prof. Balkhy also noted that two new robotic systems were introduced at the congress.

“The hands-on use of these systems was a highlight for many surgeons. In addition to robotics, new technologies were also demonstrated that enhance surgical safety in operating rooms and intensive care environments,” he concluded.

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