Pediatric cardiology in Turkey specializes in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of heart and circulatory conditions in children, from the newborn period through adolescence. In some cases, evaluation may begin before birth through fetal heart examinations. Conditions managed by a pediatric cardiologist include congenital heart defects such as septal defects, heart rhythm disorders, certain cardiomyopathies, and acquired heart diseases.
Diagnosis is based on a range of tests such as ECG, echocardiography, Holter monitoring, oxygen saturation measurement, and advanced imaging when needed. The treatment plan varies according to the type and severity of the condition. Some children may require only follow-up or medication, while other conditions can be treated with interventional catheterization. Certain complex defects may require evaluation by a pediatric cardiac surgeon.
Medical Reliability
This content has been prepared for medical education purposes based on reliable medical references and healthcare institutions in the field of pediatric cardiology and congenital heart disease. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a pediatric cardiologist, a clinical examination, or the diagnostic tests required for each individual case.
The diagnostic and treatment plan varies from one child to another depending on age, the type of heart defect, the severity of the condition, and test results. Therefore, decisions regarding medications, catheterization, or surgery should be made by the medical team responsible for the child’s care.
Medical Review: Professor Dr. Osman Yılmaz
Specialty: Pediatric Cardiology
Last Content Review: September 2026
Pediatric Cardiology in Turkey at a Glance
Pediatric cardiology focuses on evaluating heart conditions in children and determining whether they require follow-up, medication, interventional catheterization, or referral to pediatric cardiac surgery. The treatment plan varies depending on the type of condition, the child’s age, and test results.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Pediatric Cardiology |
| Age Group | Children and adolescents; evaluation may begin during the fetal stage |
| Main Conditions | Congenital defects, rhythm disorders, and acquired heart diseases |
| Diagnosis | ECG, Echo, Holter, and MRI/CT depending on the case |
| Catheterization | May be diagnostic or therapeutic for certain conditions |
| Surgery | In collaboration with a pediatric cardiac surgery team when needed |
| Follow-Up | Varies depending on the type and severity of the condition and the treatment plan |
What Is Pediatric Cardiology?
Pediatric cardiology is a subspecialty of pediatrics that focuses on the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of heart and circulatory conditions from the fetal stage through adolescence. This includes congenital heart defects, heart rhythm disorders, certain diseases of the heart muscle, and acquired conditions that affect heart function.
The scope of care extends across different age groups:
- Fetal Stage: If a heart condition is suspected before birth, fetal echocardiography may be performed.
- Newborns: To evaluate congenital defects, low oxygen levels, or heart murmurs.
- Infants: To monitor growth, feeding, breathing, and any signs that may be related to the heart.
- Children: To evaluate murmurs, palpitations, fainting, or exercise intolerance.
- Adolescents: To monitor congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, blood pressure, and other conditions.
HealthTürkiye explains that pediatric cardiology manages congenital and acquired heart diseases and often works within a multidisciplinary team that includes pediatricians, cardiac surgeons, nurses, and other supporting specialties.
What Is the Difference Between a Pediatric Cardiologist and a Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon?
Although the two specialties work closely together, the role of a pediatric cardiologist differs from that of a pediatric cardiac surgeon. A pediatric cardiologist is primarily responsible for diagnosis, follow-up, non-surgical treatment, and catheter-based interventions in selected cases, while a cardiac surgeon manages conditions that require anatomical correction through surgery.
| Pediatric Cardiologist | Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon |
|---|---|
| Diagnoses and monitors heart diseases | Performs heart surgery |
| Performs and interprets ECG, Echo, and other tests | Surgically repairs certain congenital heart defects |
| Provides long-term follow-up | Performs open-heart surgery or specialized surgical interventions |
| Prescribes medications when needed | Repairs anatomical problems that require surgery |
| Performs diagnostic or therapeutic catheterization at some centers | Provides surgical care before and after the operation |
HealthTürkiye explains that pediatric cardiac surgery is an independent surgical specialty that works in collaboration with pediatric cardiologists, anesthesiologists, and other medical teams.
What Conditions Does a Pediatric Cardiologist Treat?
A pediatric cardiologist treats a wide range of conditions, some of which are present from birth while others develop later during childhood. Not all of these conditions require surgery. Some may only need monitoring, while others may require medication, catheterization, or surgery.
Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)
An ASD is an opening between the two upper chambers of the heart. A small defect may not cause any obvious problems, while larger defects may require closure through catheterization or surgery depending on their location, size, and effect on blood flow.
Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)
A VSD is an opening between the two ventricles. Follow-up and treatment depend on the size of the defect and its effect on the heart and lungs. Some small defects may not require direct intervention.
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
PDA occurs when a normal blood vessel that is open before birth remains open after delivery. Some small cases may only require monitoring, while many cases that need treatment can be closed through catheterization. Other cases may require surgery.
Tetralogy of Fallot
Tetralogy of Fallot is a complex congenital heart defect consisting of several anatomical abnormalities that affect blood flow from the heart to the lungs. It requires careful evaluation by a pediatric heart team and may require surgical treatment depending on the individual case.
Pulmonary Valve Stenosis
Pulmonary valve stenosis occurs when the valve that controls blood flow from the right ventricle to the lungs is narrowed. Many cases that require intervention can be treated with balloon valvuloplasty through catheterization, while some cases require surgery.
Aortic Valve Stenosis
Aortic valve stenosis makes it more difficult for blood to leave the heart and flow to the body. The treatment plan depends on the degree of narrowing, the child’s age, and heart function. Options may include monitoring, catheterization, or surgery.
Coarctation of the Aorta
This is a narrowing in part of the aorta that restricts normal blood flow. The child may require catheterization or surgery depending on age and the severity of the narrowing.
Transposition of the Great Arteries
This is a complex congenital heart defect that usually presents during the newborn period and requires prompt evaluation and treatment by a specialized pediatric cardiology and cardiac surgery team.
Heart Rhythm Disorders
These include abnormally fast, slow, or irregular heartbeats. Evaluation may involve an ECG, Holter monitoring, echocardiography, and sometimes more specialized electrophysiological studies.
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy refers to a group of diseases that affect the structure of the heart muscle or its ability to contract and pump blood. These conditions may require long-term follow-up, medication, or other interventions depending on their type and severity.
Kawasaki Disease
Kawasaki disease is an inflammatory condition that may affect the coronary arteries in children, making cardiac follow-up an important part of the evaluation.
High Blood Pressure in Children
A child may require a joint evaluation by pediatric cardiology and other specialties, such as nephrology, depending on the underlying cause.
Pulmonary Hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension is characterized by elevated pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs. It may be associated with congenital heart defects or other causes and requires specialized follow-up. HealthTürkiye notes that pediatric cardiologists participate in the management of these conditions within multidisciplinary teams.
Symptoms That May Require Evaluation by a Pediatric Cardiologist
The following symptoms do not necessarily indicate heart disease, but they may require medical evaluation when they are persistent, severe, or related to physical activity.
In Newborns and Infants
Possible signs include:
- Difficulty feeding or feeding slowly.
- Fatigue or sweating during feeding.
- Rapid breathing.
- Poor weight gain or growth.
- Blue or gray discoloration of the lips or skin.
- Unusual lethargy.
Mayo Clinic and the NHS note that some congenital heart diseases may present with discoloration of the lips or skin, feeding difficulties, poor growth, or shortness of breath.
In Older Children and Adolescents
Symptoms that may require evaluation include:
- Recurrent palpitations.
- Fainting or dizziness, especially during exertion.
- Unexpected shortness of breath during activity.
- Rapid fatigue during exercise.
- Chest pain associated with exertion.
- A heart murmur that requires evaluation.
Heart murmurs, palpitations, and fainting are among the common reasons evaluated by pediatric cardiologists.
Important: Symptoms alone do not confirm the presence of heart disease. Diagnosis depends on clinical evaluation and appropriate testing.
When Is a Child’s Condition an Emergency?
Urgent medical care should be sought without waiting for an online consultation if severe signs appear, such as:
- Severe or sudden difficulty breathing.
- Marked blue discoloration of the lips or skin.
- Loss of consciousness or fainting during exertion.
- Severe chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting.
- Rapid deterioration in consciousness or activity level.
- Severe signs in newborns, such as poor feeding combined with breathing difficulty or blue discoloration.
Some critical congenital heart defects may present during the first days after birth with breathing problems or low oxygen levels, so evaluation should not be delayed when these signs appear.
How Are Heart Conditions Diagnosed in Children?
Diagnosis depends on the child’s age, symptoms, medical history, and findings from the clinical examination. The doctor may request one or several tests depending on the case.
Clinical Examination
This includes listening to the heart and lungs, checking the pulse and blood pressure, and assessing vital signs and growth.
Oxygen Saturation Measurement
A small device is used to measure oxygen saturation in the blood and may help detect certain conditions that affect blood flow or the lungs.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and is used to evaluate heart rate, rhythm, and certain electrical conduction disorders.
Echocardiography
Echocardiography uses ultrasound waves to visualize the heart chambers, valves, and blood flow, and is one of the main diagnostic tests used in pediatric cardiology.
Holter Monitoring
A Holter monitor records the heart rhythm for a longer period than a standard ECG and may be used when palpitations are intermittent or symptoms do not occur during a short examination.
Exercise Stress Test
This may be used in older children and adolescents when it is important to evaluate the heart’s response during physical activity.
Cardiac MRI
Cardiac MRI provides detailed images of the heart and blood vessels and is used in selected cases when additional anatomical information is needed.
Cardiac CT
Cardiac CT may be used to evaluate certain blood vessels and cardiac structures, particularly when the medical team needs detailed anatomical imaging.
Cardiac Catheterization
Cardiac catheterization can be used to obtain precise information about pressures and blood flow and may sometimes transition from a diagnostic procedure to a therapeutic intervention.
Pediatric Echocardiography in Turkey
Pediatric echocardiography is one of the most commonly used tests for evaluating the structure and function of the heart. It uses ultrasound waves to show the movement of the heart, the valves, and blood flow between the chambers and blood vessels.
The doctor may request an echocardiogram when:
- A heart murmur is detected.
- A congenital heart defect is suspected.
- The child has shortness of breath or poor growth.
- A known heart condition requires follow-up.
- The function of the heart muscle needs to be assessed.
- The child requires follow-up after previous catheterization or surgery.
Echocardiography is non-invasive, but the duration and method of the examination vary depending on the child’s age and ability to remain still during imaging. Not every child requires sedation; the medical team determines this based on the child’s age, condition, and the type of examination required.
HealthTürkiye lists echocardiography as one of the main tests used by pediatric cardiologists to evaluate heart conditions.
Fetal Echocardiography in Turkey
Fetal echocardiography is an ultrasound examination focused on the structure and function of the fetal heart before birth. It may be requested when a routine pregnancy scan raises suspicion of a heart condition, when certain risk factors are present, or when the doctor needs a more detailed assessment of cardiac anatomy.
The test can help detect certain congenital heart defects before birth, allowing the medical team to plan delivery and the necessary care for the newborn if early follow-up or intervention is required.
Mayo Clinic explains that some congenital heart defects can be detected during pregnancy and that fetal cardiac assessment is part of the evaluation of suspected cases.
Pediatric Cardiac Catheterization in Turkey
Pediatric cardiac catheterization can be used for diagnosis or treatment depending on the condition. A thin tube is inserted through a blood vessel and advanced to the heart, where it can be used to measure pressures, evaluate blood flow, or perform a therapeutic intervention.
Diagnostic Catheterization
It may be used to obtain information that cannot be adequately determined through non-invasive tests, such as measuring pressures within the heart chambers or evaluating certain blood vessels.
Therapeutic Catheterization
In some congenital heart defects, catheterization can be used for treatment without opening the chest. The American Heart Association explains that therapeutic catheterization may be used to close certain defects, open narrowed valves or blood vessels, or close abnormal blood vessels.
The presence of a congenital heart defect does not automatically mean catheterization is the appropriate treatment. The decision depends on the type, location, and size of the defect, the child’s age, and overall condition.
Conditions That May Be Treated with Catheterization
Conditions that may be suitable for catheter-based treatment in selected cases include:
- Certain ASDs that are suitable for device closure.
- Many PDAs that require closure.
- Certain cases of pulmonary valve stenosis treated with balloon dilation.
- Certain cases of aortic valve stenosis.
- Some narrowed blood vessels that can be widened or supported with a stent.
The American Heart Association explains that selected cases of ASD and PDA closure, as well as dilation of certain narrowed valves, can be performed through catheterization when the anatomy is suitable.
The decision to perform catheterization should be made by an interventional pediatric cardiologist after reviewing the echocardiogram, imaging, and other test results.
When Does a Child Need Heart Surgery?
Surgery is not the first treatment option for all pediatric heart conditions. Some conditions require only monitoring, while others can be treated with medications or catheterization. Surgery becomes necessary when the defect is complex or cannot be repaired through catheterization.
Conditions that may require surgical evaluation include:
- Complex congenital heart defects.
- Certain septal defects that are not suitable for catheter closure.
- Certain abnormalities involving the valves or blood vessels.
- Conditions that require anatomical reconstruction of the heart.
Mayo Clinic explains that treatment for congenital heart defects may range from observation alone to catheterization or surgery, depending on the type and severity of the defect.
Treatment of Heart Disease in Children
Treatment can be divided into four main approaches:
- Observation and Follow-Up
Some small defects do not significantly affect heart function and may require only periodic examinations. - Medications
Medications are used to treat symptoms, complications, rhythm disorders, or blood pressure, but they do not close most anatomical heart defects on their own. - Interventional Catheterization
Catheter-based procedures can treat certain defects, narrowings, or abnormal blood vessels when the condition is suitable for this type of intervention. - Surgery
Surgery becomes necessary when the heart requires anatomical repair that cannot be achieved through catheterization or when the condition is complex.
The choice between these approaches depends on an accurate diagnosis, the child’s age, and the effect of the condition on the heart and lungs.
Neonatal Cardiology
Some congenital heart diseases require diagnosis and follow-up from the first days after birth. Evaluation may begin because of low oxygen levels, a heart murmur, feeding difficulties, color changes, or breathing problems.
The evaluation may include:
- Oxygen saturation measurement.
- Electrocardiogram.
- Echocardiography.
- Evaluation by a pediatric cardiologist.
- Consultation with pediatric cardiac surgery if the condition is complex.
In critical cases, having a neonatal intensive care unit, pediatric cardiology team, and pediatric cardiac surgery team within the same center can be an important factor in coordinating care.
Heart Rhythm Disorders in Children
Heart rhythm disorders may present as palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or an unusually rapid heartbeat. Not all rhythm disorders are dangerous, but some require careful follow-up.
Evaluation may include:
- ECG.
- Holter monitoring.
- Echocardiography.
- Family history.
- Additional tests or an electrophysiological study of the heart when needed.
Mayo Clinic notes that the evaluation of certain heart rhythm disorders in children may include an ECG, echocardiography, and Holter monitoring, with additional testing in more complex cases.
Pediatric Cardiology Hospitals in Turkey
Pediatric cardiology services are available in Turkey at a number of multidisciplinary hospitals that include pediatric and cardiology departments. Some also provide pediatric cardiac surgery and intensive care services.
Hospitals currently listed in the Tabeebak directory include:
Memorial Ataşehir Hospital
Provides pediatric cardiology and pediatric cardiac surgery services, along with pediatric specialties and intensive care.
Medical Park Florya Hospital
Offers a wide range of pediatric subspecialties, including pediatric cardiology, pediatric intensive care, and neonatal intensive care.
Acıbadem Atakent Hospital
Provides pediatric cardiac services within a multidisciplinary hospital that includes pediatrics, intensive care, and cardiac services.
Acıbadem Kozyatağı Hospital
Its specialties include pediatric cardiology, pediatrics, neonatal intensive care, and pediatric surgery.
Medical Park Ankara – Keçiören
Professor Dr. Osman Yılmaz, a specialist in pediatric cardiology, is among the physicians practicing at this hospital.
Hospital selection should be based on the child’s diagnosis, the appropriate doctor, the need for catheterization or surgery, and the availability of intensive care when the condition is complex.
Pediatric Cardiologists in Turkey
When searching for a pediatric cardiologist in Turkey, it is preferable to choose a doctor with direct experience in the child’s specific condition, whether it involves a congenital heart defect, rhythm disorder, fetal echocardiography, or diagnostic and interventional catheterization.
Professor Dr. Osman Yılmaz
Professor Dr. Osman Yılmaz specializes in pediatric cardiology and works at Medical Park Ankara – Keçiören. His medical interests include congenital heart disease, fetal echocardiography, pediatric echocardiography, rhythm disorders, and heart conditions in newborns. His experience also includes interventional and non-invasive diagnosis in pediatric cardiology.
Cost of Pediatric Heart Diagnosis and Treatment in Turkey
There is no single price that applies to all pediatric heart conditions in Turkey. Costs vary significantly depending on whether the child needs only a consultation, diagnostic tests, therapeutic catheterization, or surgery.
| Service | Factors Affecting Cost |
|---|---|
| Consultation | The doctor, hospital, and specific subspecialty |
| Echo | Type of echocardiogram and complexity of the condition |
| Holter | Duration of monitoring and type of device used |
| MRI / CT | Type of imaging and whether sedation or additional preparation is required |
| Catheterization | Whether it is diagnostic or therapeutic and the type of device or intervention required |
| Surgery | Type of defect, complexity of the procedure, length of hospital stay, and intensive care requirements |
It is therefore preferable to send the child’s medical reports first to receive an initial evaluation and treatment plan before determining the cost.
Treatment of International Pediatric Patients
When traveling to Turkey for treatment of a child with a heart condition, it is important to organize the medical file before arrival so that the team can determine whether the child needs an additional consultation, catheterization, or surgical evaluation.
Coordination may include:
- Translation of medical reports.
- Sending Echo, CT, and MRI results for review.
- Selecting the appropriate pediatric cardiologist.
- Selecting the hospital.
- Assessing the need for catheterization or surgery.
- Coordinating diagnostic appointments.
- Supporting the family during the treatment period.
- Organizing follow-up after returning home.
Which Medical Reports Should Be Sent Before Traveling?
It is preferable to send as much available information as possible, particularly:
- The current doctor’s report.
- ECG.
- Echo images and reports.
- MRI or CT if previously performed.
- Report from any previous catheterization, if available.
- Reports from previous surgeries.
- Recent laboratory test results.
- A list of current medications.
- The child’s age and weight.
- Details of current symptoms.
- Any reports related to pregnancy or fetal diagnosis if the condition was identified before birth.
How Do You Start Your Child’s Treatment Journey with Tabeebak?
The process can begin before traveling through clear steps:
- Send the medical file and reports.
- Identify the pediatric cardiologist most suitable for the case.
- Review the available test results.
- Determine any additional tests that may be required.
- Explain the initial treatment options.
- Select the appropriate hospital.
- Confirm the expected appointment date and cost.
- Organize travel and medical follow-up.
This process can help reduce unnecessary repeat testing and clarify the treatment plan before the family arrives in Turkey.
Sources and References
This content is based on reliable medical sources, including:
- HealthTürkiye – Pediatric Cardiology: An overview of pediatric cardiology, congenital and acquired heart diseases, echocardiography, rhythm disorders, and treatment options. HealthTürkiye – Pediatric Cardiology
- Mayo Clinic – Congenital Heart Defects in Children: Information about diagnosing congenital heart defects using ECG, echocardiography, MRI, and catheterization, as well as treatment and follow-up options. Mayo Clinic – Congenital Heart Defects in Children
- American Heart Association – Congenital Heart Defects: Information about congenital heart defects, septal defects, and therapeutic catheterization in children. American Heart Association – Congenital Heart Defects
- American Heart Association – Cardiac Catheterization for Heart Defects: Information about the use of cardiac catheterization to diagnose and treat certain congenital heart defects. AHA – Cardiac Catheterization for Heart Defects
