A Bypass in Shanghai — and Why We Chose China
A patient from the UAE shares his experience getting coronary bypass surgery in Shanghai — the decision, the process, and recovery.
Name changed for privacy. This is a representative patient story, not a guarantee of outcomes or cost.
I’m a 61-year-old from Dubai with blockages in three arteries. I was advised I needed a bypass. I researched options and decided to come to Shanghai.
Why we chose China
- Cost — the all-in cost was a fraction of the quotes I’d had in the Gulf and Europe.
- Volume — the heart center performs a very high number of bypasses, which I found reassuring.
- International department — English support made the process manageable.
What actually happened
- Remote review first — I sent my angiogram and got a written plan and quote before flying. That’s what gave me the confidence.
- In Shanghai: pre-op workup, the bypass surgery, and a hospital stay of about a week with physiotherapy.
- Recovery: I was back to daily life within a few weeks.
What I’d tell others
- Do a remote consult first — get the plan and cost before you travel.
- Choose a high-volume heart center and ask direct questions.
- Get a written quote and know what’s included.
I’m much better now and feel we made the right decision.
⚠️ Heart care is time-sensitive and individual. This is a personal account. Make decisions with your treating cardiology team, and in an emergency call local emergency services.