Between 2015 and 2023, an average of 5,000 to 5,500 solid organ transplants have been performed annually in Turkey. The vast majority of these are kidney transplants (approximately 3,000–3,500 per year) and liver transplants (approximately 1,000–1,500 per year).

The data also reflects a noticeable decline in transplantation numbers in 2020–2021 as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, which temporarily disrupted surgical procedures and donor coordination efforts worldwide.

Living vs. Cadaveric Donor Transplants

Turkey ranks first in the world in terms of living donor organ transplantation. However, the number of cadaveric (deceased donor) transplants remains significantly lower, placing the country behind many others in this category. This imbalance highlights the urgent need to raise awareness and promote organ donation after death.

Historical Development and International Impact

The history of organ transplantation in Turkey dates back to 1975. Following a major advancement after the year 2000, the country achieved a remarkable expansion in transplant operations—increasing tenfold within two decades. Turkey now holds a global leadership position in living donor transplants and serves as an international hub for advanced transplantation services.

Today, approximately 10–15% of organ transplant recipients in Turkey are foreign patients, and this number continues to grow annually, reflecting the country’s strong reputation for medical expertise, successful outcomes, and high ethical standards in the field of organ transplantation.