A Global Showcase for Medical Excellence
Istanbul recently became the epicenter of the global healthcare community as Liv Hospital Expo brought together world leaders, medical tourism agencies, and distinguished institutions from 35 countries. This landmark event was a powerful demonstration of Turkey’s rising prominence in health tourism, showcasing the nation’s leadership, cutting-edge technology, and signature personalized, boutique approach to patient care.
The expo began with a magnificent performance, setting a dynamic tone for the days to come. The opening speeches were delivered by a panel of influential leaders, including ERI Global President and CEO Bobbie Celler, Liv Hospital Group Coordinator Meri İstiroti, and the Founding President of the World Health Tourism Council, Emin Çakmak, who collectively outlined a vision of a collaborative future for global health.
Day One: A Spectrum of Innovation and Expertise
The first day was dedicated to exploring the strategic landscape of health tourism and diving deep into specialized medical fields. Emin Çakmak opened the sessions with an insightful analysis of health tourism’s vital role in Turkey’s economy. This was followed by a look into the future of medicine with Istinye University Rector, Prof. Dr. Erdal Karaöz, who presented on the modern possibilities of stem cells in regenerative medicine.
The afternoon featured two major multi-disciplinary sessions:
- A Comprehensive Pediatric Super-Session: This panel showcased Liv Hospital’s holistic approach to child health. Moderated by Prof. Dr. Ozan Özkaya, leading specialists including Assoc. Dr. Gönül Çatlı, Prof. Dr. Tülin Tiraje Celkan, Prof. Dr. Mahir İğde, Assoc. Dr. Şenol Bekmez, Assoc. Dr. Adil Umut Zübarioğlu, and Prof. Dr. Makbule Eren covered the entire spectrum of pediatric care, from nephrology and endocrinology to hematology, oncology, and immunology.
- The Art and Science of Aesthetics: Moderated by International Medical Consultant Eva Pavel, the final session focused on innovations in aesthetic medicine. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hakan Birkent captivated the audience with before-and-after samples of sound aesthetics, while Dr. Hamid Aydın discussed hair transplantation, Dentist Zeynep Kabalcı Holtoft detailed smile aesthetics, and Assoc. Dr. Ozan Bitik presented on plastic and aesthetic surgery.
Day Two: Advanced Technologies and Surgical Mastery
The second day focused on high-tech interventions and complex surgical disciplines.
- Cardiovascular Health Panel: Moderated by Prof. Dr. Alp Burak Çatakoğlu, this session brought together Prof. Dr. Sertaç Çiçek, Prof. Dr. Levent Saltık, and Assoc. Dr. Ali Buturak to discuss advanced treatments in adult and pediatric cardiovascular health.
- Orthopedics and Traumatology Panel: Prof. Dr. Çağatay Öztürk moderated a discussion with Prof. Dr. Erden Ertürer, Prof. Dr. Ufuk Aydınlı, and Assoc. Dr. Gürkan Gümüşsuyu, who shared their expertise on treatment methods for scoliosis, bone tumors, and sports injuries.
- A Leap in Cancer Treatment: In a dedicated presentation, Radiation Oncology Specialist Prof. Dr. Merdan Fayda provided crucial information on the MR-Linac method, a revolutionary technology that provides targeted cancer treatment without damaging surrounding tissues.
- The Robotic Surgery Revolution: The final panel, coordinated by Meri İstiroti, highlighted the importance of robotic surgery. Prof. Dr. Hakan Yanar (General Surgery), Prof. Dr. Ahmet Özkara (Cardiovascular Surgery), Prof. Dr. Çağatay Tezel (Thoracic Surgery), and Prof. Dr. Volkan Tuğcu (Urology) explained the distinct advantages of robotic operations in their respective fields.
The event concluded with a special ceremony where a plaque was presented to Emin Çakmak for his unwavering support and contributions to health tourism.