Liv Hospital Connects the Global Cardiology Community in Istanbul via ACS’24

Addressing Complex Challenges to Discover Superior Solutions

The Advanced Cardiovascular Solutions (ACS’24) Symposium commenced with an opening address by Meri İstiroti, the Liv Hospital Group Coordinator and Istinye University Executive Board Member. She shared her pride in having the Istinye University Congress Center host this premier scientific gathering, which highlights the trajectory of future cardiology. Led by Liv Hospital Cardiology Specialists including Prof. Dr. Alp Burak Çatakoğlu, Prof. Dr. Enis Oğuz, Prof. Dr. Kadriye Kılıçkesmez, Prof. Dr. Ayşegül Karahan, and Prof. Dr. Rıfat Eralp Ulusoy, ACS’24 combined academic theory with real-time surgical demonstrations. Operating under the theme “Ask the tough questions, find better solutions,” the sessions offered participants both a deep educational dive and professional inspiration.

Focusing on Innovation, New Technologies, and Live Case Studies

ACS’24 provided an in-depth exploration of various specialties, from interventional cardiology to arrhythmia management, through live clinical cases guided by experts. A particular highlight was the live-streamed session on persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation surgery, which showcased advanced 3D mapping and patient management strategies. Prof. Dr. Enis Oğuz noted, “Modern mapping techniques allow us to perform procedures with greater speed and precision. These sessions facilitate not just learning, but interactive dialogue with our peers,” underscoring the event’s technical and scientific value.

The symposium also scrutinized the use of drug-eluting balloons (DCB), a trending topic with evolving indications. Prof. Dr. Alp Burak Çatakoğlu explained that DCBs offer significant benefits in treating small vessels, in-stent restenosis, and complex bifurcations (vessel branching). A live demonstration utilized FFR (Fractional Flow Reserve) to measure blood flow in a bifurcation case, illustrating how to prevent unnecessary stenting through precise evaluation.

• Drug-Coated Balloons (DCB): In one of the most dynamic sessions of the year, experts engaged in a spirited debate over the technical nuances of DCB applications.
• TAVI: The event covered comprehensive pre-procedural planning for aortic valve stenosis patients. It was highlighted that rigorous planning minimizes complications and enhances safety, with step-by-step guides on modern, minimalist implantation of the latest TAVI valves.
• Executing Complex Procedures: Through live demonstrations, experts showed how selecting the appropriate stents and materials can make intricate procedures more predictable and reproducible.

Sustaining Scientific Collaboration in Future Endeavors

As the event drew to a close, discussions turned toward the 2025 ACS projects, focusing on building an international network, fostering scientific partnerships, and adopting innovative educational frameworks. The symposium concluded with a strong emphasis on the “heart team” model and the importance of patient-centered clinical decisions.

By serving as a high-level platform for scientific exchange and professional growth, ACS’24 has made a significant impact on the international cardiology landscape.