Photodynamic Therapy Treatment in Turkey
About Photodynamic Therapy
Key Highlights
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Minimally invasive with targeted action, sparing healthy tissue.Can be repeated in the same area if needed.Often performed as an outpatient procedure.Generally has fewer long-term side effects than radiation or chemotherapy.May be an option for patients who cannot undergo surgery.Can be used to relieve symptoms (palliative care) in advanced cancers./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Treatment of actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin.
- Management of certain early-stage cancers of the esophagus (Barrett's esophagus with high-grade dysplasia).
- Treatment of non-small cell lung cancer to relieve airway obstruction.
- Palliative treatment for certain head and neck cancers.
- Treatment of some precancerous conditions and superficial cancers accessible to light.
How to prepare
- Initial consultation with the oncologist to assess suitability and plan treatment.
- Administration of the photosensitizing drug intravenously or applied topically, depending on the cancer type.
- A waiting period (from hours to days) for the drug to accumulate in the cancer cells.
- Avoiding direct sunlight and bright indoor light for the specified period before light activation, as the skin and eyes become temporarily photosensitive.
- Arranging for transportation home after the procedure due to light sensitivity.
Risks & possible complications
- Photosensitivity reaction: Skin and eyes remain sensitive to light for 24-48 hours or longer, risking sunburn.
- Localized pain, burning, or stinging sensation at the treatment site during and after light exposure.
- Swelling, redness, and possible blistering or crusting in the treated area.
- Scarring or changes in skin texture or pigmentation.
- If treating internal organs, risks can include temporary difficulty swallowing (esophageal treatment) or shortness of breath (lung treatment).
- Infection at the treatment site (rare).
Recovery & hospital stay
- Strict light avoidance for 24-48 hours post-IV drug: stay indoors, use blackout curtains, and wear protective clothing/glasses if going out.
- Gradually reintroduce light exposure as per the doctor's instructions, typically over several days.
- Keep the treated area clean and dry; apply prescribed ointments if provided.
- Manage discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your doctor.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and treatment response.
- Report any signs of severe pain, excessive swelling, or infection to your oncologist promptly.
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Typical hospital stay:
0-1 days (typically outpatient)
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Expected recovery time:
1-4 weeks (depending on treatment site and extent)
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering photodynamic therapy in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for photodynamic therapy in Turkey include Liv Hospital Ankara, Istinye Üniversitesi Hastanesi Liv, VM Medical Park Pendik Hastanesi, Medical Park Florya, Medical Park Bahçelievler, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform photodynamic therapy. MediFyr helps you compare oncologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for photodynamic therapy compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 330 – USD 1,652 | 0-1 days (typically outpatient) | ~ 1-4 weeks (depending on treatment site and extent) | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 2,459 – USD 12,293 | 0-1 days (typically outpatient) | ~ 1-4 weeks (depending on treatment site and extent) | Know More |
Top hospitals for Photodynamic Therapy in Turkey
These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated oncologist teams and experience managing patients undergoing photodynamic therapy.
Instabul, Turkey
140 Doctors
Angel Saxena, a 68-year-old retired librarian,...
Angel Saxena, a 68-year-old retired librarian, had a persistent, scaly patch on her cheek for over a year. A lifelong gardener, she attributed it to sun damage but grew worried when it didn't fade. A biopsy confirmed it was actinic keratosis, a pre-cancerous lesion. Her oncologist, Dr. Lee, recommended Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) as it could treat the visible patch and any surrounding 'field' of sun-damaged cells, reducing future cancer risk. On treatment day, a light-sensitizing cream was applied to her face and covered for 90 minutes. The laser light itself caused a brief but intense stinging sensation. For a week after, her face was red, swollen, and crusted, requiring careful wound care and strict sun avoidance. Angel felt anxious and self-conscious before the procedure, mourning the cumulative effect of a lifetime in the sun. During recovery, she felt vulnerable but determined. Six weeks later, with the treated area healed into smooth, healthy skin, she felt profound relief and empowerment. She now wears a wide-brimmed hat religiously, viewing the procedure not just as a treatment, but as a turning point toward proactive skin health.
Oncologists for Photodynamic Therapy
Explore experienced oncologists who regularly perform photodynamic therapy and provide pre- and post-operative care in Turkey.
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