University Hospital Heidelberg

University Hospital Heidelberg, affiliated with Heidelberg University’s Faculty of Medicine, is one of Germany’s premier medical centers, boasting nearly 2,000 beds and over 50 specialist departments. Known for seamlessly combining cutting-edge research with advanced patient care, the hospital offers world-class services in oncology, cardiology, transplantation, neuroscience, pediatrics, and the management of rare diseases. It houses renowned centers, such as the National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and the Heidelberg Ion Beam Therapy Center (HIT), pioneers in proton and carbon-ion radiotherapy. Treating patients from over 100 countries, University Hospital Heidelberg is consistently ranked among the world’s best hospitals, delivering high-quality, interdisciplinary healthcare and innovative therapies that set benchmarks in modern medicine.

Key Highlights

• Around 2,600 bed capacity across inpatient and outpatient service units
• Cardiac Surgery Unit with 60 beds, including 16 ICU beds, 14 Intermediate Care beds, and 30 ward beds
• Multidisciplinary care covering surgery, oncology, neurology, transplantation, and cardiovascular medicine
• Strong integration of research, teaching, and clinical care with a focus on personalized and translational medicine
• Recognized globally for excellence in cardiology, neurology, oncology, and cardiac surgery

At University Hospital Heidelberg, every specialty is designed to provide precise treatment supported by innovation, expertise, and compassionate care.

Location & Accessibility

• Address: Im Neuenheimer Feld, Heidelberg, Germany
• Airport: Approximately 45 minutes by car or train from Frankfurt International Airport; about 90 minutes from Stuttgart Airport
• Train / Public Transport: Heidelberg Central Station is about 10 minutes by car from the hospital; multiple bus lines connect directly to the “Neuenheimer Feld” campus

Awards & Recognition

• Ranked #15 worldwide in Newsweek & Statista “World’s Best Hospitals 2024” and 2nd in Germany
• Featured in “World’s Best Specialized Hospitals 2025” with top 100 ranking in 11 of 12 specialties
• Consistently recognized for excellence in cardiology, neurology, oncology, and cardiac surgery

Centres of Excellence & Treatment Options at University Hospital Heidelberg

At University Hospital Heidelberg, each cardiovascular specialty is designed to provide patients with the appropriate treatment at the right moment, backed by state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care.

Cardiology, Angiology & Pneumology (Flagship Department)

The Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Pneumology is one of Germany’s leading academic centers for cardiology. It integrates subspecialties like interventional cardiology, structural heart disease, heart failure, electrophysiology, and advanced cardiac imaging.

Conditions Treated: Coronary artery disease, valve disease, arrhythmias, cardiomyopathies, structural heart defects, heart failur

Treatment Options:

• Interventional Procedures: PCI, stenting, rotational atherectomy
• Structural & Valve Interventions: TAVI, MitraClip™, balloon valvuloplasty, device closures
• Electrophysiology: 3D mapping, catheter ablation, pacemaker/ICD/CRT implantations
• Cardiac Imaging: MRI, CT, invasive catheter diagnostics

Cardiac Surgery & Vascular Surgery

The Clinical Cardiac Surgery team performs a wide range of surgical procedures for both adults and children, encompassing bypass operations, valve surgery, thoracic aorta procedures, and congenital heart corrections. They also support high-risk aortic valve cases, working closely with interventional cardiology for hybrid approaches.

Conditions Treated: Coronary artery disease, valve disease, aortic aneurysms, peripheral arterial disease, varicose veins

Treatment Options:

• Cardiac Surgery: CABG, valve replacement, aortic surgery
• Vascular Surgery: EVAR/TEVAR, peripheral interventions, carotid surgery
• Hybrid Procedures: Combined open and endovascular approaches
• Advanced Techniques: Robotic-assisted surgeries, minimally invasive procedures

Pediatric & Congenital Heart Centre

Under the leadership of Prof. Matthias Gorenflo, the congenital cardiac surgery team at Heidelberg performs the full spectrum of congenital cardiac surgeries for patients of all ages, from neonates to adults with CHD. The congenital cardiology team provides comprehensive perioperative care, diagnostic services, and interventional treatments.

Conditions Treated: TOF, VSD/ASD, TGA, HLHS, single-ventricle defects, complex congenital heart disease

Treatment Options:

• Neonatal Surgery: Norwood procedure, Fontan operation
• Device Closures: ASD/VSD/PDA device closure
• Fetal Echocardiography: Prenatal cardiac diagnosis
• Pediatric Electrophysiology: Arrhythmia management in children
• Complex Reconstructions: For single ventricle and other defects

Heart Failure, Mechanical Support & Transplant Program

Heidelberg maintains an advanced heart failure center. It offers mechanical circulatory support (LVAD/BVAD) and collaborates with cardiac surgery for transplant services. Historically, from 1991 to 2010, 479 heart transplants were performed, with documented survival outcomes and long-term follow-up.

Organs Covered: Heart transplantation and mechanical circulatory support

Treatment Options:

• Heart Transplant: Over 100 transplants performed
• LVAD Support: HeartMate 3 LVAD implantation
• BIVAD & ECMO: Advanced life support systems
• Impella Support: Percutaneous ventricular assist device
• Cardiac Rehabilitation: Comprehensive recovery programs

Preventive, Rehabilitative & Sports Cardiology

The hospital offers comprehensive cardiac imaging and diagnostics, including echocardiography (2D/3D/TEE), cardiac MRI and CT, invasive catheter diagnostics (coronary angiography, FFR, IVUS), and non-invasive imaging for structural and vascular disease.

Conditions Treated: Cardiac risk assessment, post-cardiac event recovery, athletic heart evaluation

Treatment Options:

• Executive Health Checks: Comprehensive cardiac screening
• VO₂-max Testing: Cardiopulmonary exercise testing
• Tele-rehabilitation: Remote cardiac rehabilitation
• Lifestyle Clinics: Diet and exercise counseling
• Sports Cardiology: Athletic performance optimization

Infrastructure & Facilities at University Hospital Heidelberg

Infrastructure

University Hospital Heidelberg is one of Germany’s largest medical centers, built to meet international healthcare standards and offering a healing environment that combines advanced medical capabilities with patient comfort.

• Beds: 1,991 beds across various specialized departments
• Operating Theatres: 16 state-of-the-art operating rooms, including two hybrid theatres and three equipped with integrated endoscopy systems
• Intensive Care Units (ICUs): 56 beds in the intensive care unit (ICU) and 56 beds in the intermediate care unit (IMC)
• Emergency & Trauma Care: 24×7 emergency services with dedicated trauma care

Advanced Medical Technology

Patients at University Hospital Heidelberg benefit from world-class diagnostic and therapeutic technology, ensuring accurate diagnosis and effective treatment:

• Cardiac Imaging: State-of-the-art cardiac imaging technologies
• Hybrid Operating Rooms: Two operating rooms equipped as hybrid operating rooms with robot-assisted angiography systems
• Magnetic Resonance Tomograph (MRT): 3 Tesla MRT producing high-quality images
• Interventional Radiology: Advanced interventional radiology procedures

Dedicated Patient Services

University Hospital Heidelberg offers comprehensive support beyond clinical care:

• International Patient Services: Assistance for international patients
• Second Opinion Services: Availability of second opinion consultations
• Patient Relationship Managers: Dedicated support for patients
• Pre- and Post-Surgery Counseling: Comprehensive counseling services
• 24×7 Pharmacy and Blood Bank Services: Round-the-clock availability

Comfort & Amenities

Your comfort is part of the healing journey. University Hospital Heidelberg provides:

• Accommodation Options: Modern single or twin rooms with high-quality seating and relaxing armchairs
• In-Room Amenities: Flat-screen TV, bedside terminal, personal fridge, and safe
• Family Lounges and Waiting Areas: Designed for comfort
• On-Site Cafeterias and Food Courts: Providing a variety of dining options
• Ample Parking Facilities: Convenient parking for patients and visitors

Recent Advancements:

• First Implantation of Fully Artificial Heart (2023)
• Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Heart Failure Management (2024)
• Expansion of Heart Transplant Program (2025)

Top Doctors at University Hospital Heidelberg – Complete Department-Wise List

Diagnostics at Heidelberg University Hospital – Department-Wise Services

Heidelberg University Hospital’s Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Pulmonology is renowned for its comprehensive and advanced diagnostic services in cardiovascular and pulmonary medicine. Utilizing cutting-edge technology and a multidisciplinary approach, the department ensures precise and timely diagnosis and treatment for each patient.

Cardiac Imaging

• Echocardiography – Standard and 3D transthoracic and transesophageal imaging, including stress echocardiography with dobutamine.
• Cardiac MRI – High-resolution imaging for myocardial viability, fibrosis, and congenital heart disease assessment.
• Coronary CT – Non-invasive coronary artery visualization for plaque and stenosis evaluation.
• Digital X-Ray – Chest imaging for structural and functional assessment.
• Nuclear Imaging – SPECT/PET perfusion studies for myocardial blood flow analysis.

Cardiac Function Testing

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Standard 12-lead ECG for rhythm and conduction analysis.
• Holter Monitoring – 24–72 hour ambulatory ECG monitoring for arrhythmia detection
• Treadmill Test (TMT) – Exercise-induced ECG and hemodynamic response evaluation.
• Loop Recorder – Long-term rhythm monitoring for intermittent arrhythmias.

Invasive Cardiac Diagnostics & Interventions

• Coronary Angiography – Diagnostic and therapeutic catheterization via arterial or venous access.
• Percutaneous Coronary Interventions (PCI) – Balloon angioplasty, stent implantation, and rotational atherectomy.
• Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) – Detailed vessel wall imaging for lesion assessment.
• Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) – Measurement of pressure differences across coronary lesions to assess ischemic potential.
• Electrophysiology (EP) Studies – Mapping and ablation of arrhythmias.
• Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) – Device implantation for heart failure management.
• Pacemaker/ICD Implantation – Insertion of devices for rhythm management.

Advanced Heart Failure & Transplantation

• Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) – Use of LVAD/BVAD for end-stage heart failure.
• Heart Transplantation – Comprehensive evaluation and post-operative care.
• Cardio-Oncology – Management of cardiovascular complications in cancer patients.

Vascular Diagnostics

• Ultrasound & Doppler Studies – Assessment of peripheral and carotid arteries.
• CT/MR Angiography – Non-invasive imaging of vascular structures.
• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) – Screening for peripheral artery disease.
• Venous Studies – Evaluation of deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins.

Pulmonary Diagnostics

• Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) – Spirometry and diffusion capacity measurements.
• Bronchoscopy – Endoscopic examination of the airways for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
• Chest Imaging – High-resolution CT and X-ray for lung pathology assessment.

Laboratory Services

• Cardiac Biomarkers – Measurement of troponin, BNP, NT-proBNP for myocardial injury and heart failure.
• Lipid Profile – Comprehensive cholesterol and triglyceride analysis.
• Coagulation Studies – Assessment of bleeding and clotting disorders.
• Genetic Testing – Identification of inherited cardiovascular conditions.
• Comprehensive Biochemistry – Evaluation of renal, hepatic, and metabolic parameters.

Patient Summary

• Annual Surgeries: Over 2,500 cardiac surgeries are performed annually across five operating rooms.
• Heart Transplant Outcomes: The hospital boasts a strong track record in heart transplantation, with data indicating favorable patient outcomes.
• Infant Cardiac Surgery: The Pediatric Heart Center at Heidelberg University Hospital provides specialized care for infants and children with congenital heart defects.

Stay & Accommodation

Hospital Rooms:

• Modern single and double rooms are equipped with amenities such as Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs.
• Comfort rooms are available upon request, subject to availability.

Guest Accommodation:

• The Thoraxklinik offers a limited number of self-catering apartments for patients and their families.
• Additionally, the university provides assistance in arranging accommodations through the International Office.

Hotel Options Near the Hospital:

Dining Options: The hospital’s vicinity offers a variety of restaurants serving international cuisines, including options suitable for heart-healthy diets.

Patient Services & Amenities – Heidelberg University Hospital

At Heidelberg University Hospital, we are committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to all our patients. Our services are designed to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience, whether you’re visiting from within Germany or from abroad.

1. International Patient Services

When you choose Heidelberg University Hospital for your treatment, you receive:

• Medical Visa Assistance: We assist in arranging invitation letters and provide guidance on visa requirements.
• Airport Transfers: Safe and comfortable pickup and drop-off services between Frankfurt Airport and the hospital.
• Language Support: Certified interpreters available in multiple languages to facilitate communication.
• Dedicated International Coordinator: A single point of contact from arrival to departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
  

2. Visiting & Admission Process

We ensure your hospital entry and stay are hassle-free:

• Planned Admissions: Coordinated after physician evaluation and insurance documentation.
• Emergency Admissions: 24/7 emergency services available for urgent medical needs.
• Discharge Process: You’ll receive a detailed treatment summary, medication plan, and follow-up schedule.
  

3. Insurance Coverage & Payment Assistance

We help you navigate financial arrangements with transparency:

• Cashless & Reimbursement Options: Depending on your policy and the hospital’s empanelment status with the insurer.
• International Insurance Support: We may accept cost coverage guarantees from international insurance companies in individual cases. The prerequisite is that a written cost coverage guarantee from the insurance provider, accepted by the Medical International Office, is available in advance. In these cases, patients are not required to make an advance payment.
  

4. Comfort & Amenities

Because your surroundings matter during recovery, Heidelberg University Hospital offers:

• Choice of Accommodation: Economy, Deluxe, Suite, and Presidential Rooms — all with Wi-Fi, TV, and attendant facilities.
  
• On-site Cafeterias: Offering a variety of meals to cater to diverse dietary needs.
  
• Visitor Parking: Convenient parking facilities for attendants and visitors.

Patient Services & Amenities – Heidelberg University Hospital

At Heidelberg University Hospital, we are committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to all our patients. Our services are designed to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience, whether you’re visiting from within Germany or from abroad.

1. International Patient Services

When you choose Heidelberg University Hospital for your treatment, you receive:

• Medical Visa Assistance: We assist in arranging invitation letters and provide guidance on visa requirements.
• Airport Transfers: Safe and comfortable pickup and drop-off services between Frankfurt Airport and the hospital.
• Language Support: Certified interpreters available in multiple languages to facilitate communication.
• Dedicated International Coordinator: A single point of contact from arrival to departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

2. Visiting & Admission Process

We ensure your hospital entry and stay are hassle-free:

• Planned Admissions: Coordinated after physician evaluation and insurance documentation.
• Emergency Admissions: 24/7 emergency services available for urgent medical needs.
• Discharge Process: You’ll receive a detailed treatment summary, medication plan, and follow-up schedule.

3. Insurance Coverage & Payment Assistance

We help you navigate financial arrangements with transparency:

• Cashless & Reimbursement Options: Depending on your policy and the hospital’s empanelment status with the insurer.
• International Insurance Support: We may accept cost coverage guarantees from international insurance companies on a case-by-case basis. The prerequisite is that a written cost coverage guarantee from the insurance provider, accepted by the Medical International Office, is available in advance. In these cases, patients are not required to make an advance payment.

4. Comfort & Amenities

Because your surroundings matter during recovery, Heidelberg University Hospital offers:

• Choice of Accommodation: Economy, Deluxe, Suite, and Presidential Rooms — all with Wi-Fi, TV, and attendant facilities.
• On-site Cafeterias: Offering a variety of meals to cater to diverse dietary needs.
• Visitor Parking: Convenient parking facilities for attendants and visitors

Appointment Booking at Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany

We’re Here to Help You Book Your Appointment with Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany.

Whether you’re seeking your first consultation, a second opinion, or a follow-up review, our patient coordinators ensure a smooth booking process so you can focus on your health. We assist with appointment bookings, coordination for second opinions, and provide cost estimations and treatment planning to ensure patients receive timely and appropriate care at Heidelberg University Hospital. We will also guide you through the hospital’s doctor list and treatment price list. You can directly fill out the hospital’s inquiry form or chat with our coordinators to understand consultation fees, availability, or for any other queries.

Patient Feedback on Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany

Advanced Medical Technology

Patients frequently emphasize Heidelberg University Hospital’s commitment to cutting-edge cardiac and vascular care. The hospital is equipped with high-resolution cardiac MRI, 3D echocardiography, minimally invasive surgical tools, and robotic-assisted procedures, allowing for precise, effective, and less invasive treatment options.

Skilled and Compassionate Specialists

Reviews highlight the hospital’s team of highly trained cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and transplant specialists. Many patients appreciate not only their technical expertise but also the personalized attention and empathy shown throughout diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Seamless International Patient Support

Heidelberg University Hospital is recognized by international patients from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East for its dedicated International Office. Patients value the guidance provided for appointments, medical documentation, language support, insurance assistance, and post-treatment follow-ups, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

Focus on Safety and Cleanliness

Visitors consistently praise the hospital’s clean and hygienic environment, as well as its rigorous infection control protocols. From spotless wards and modern ICUs to well-managed administrative services, patients feel confident in a safe and supportive setting that promotes healing and comfort.

FAQs – Heidelberg University Hospital

Q.1 What are the most commonly performed cardiac procedures at Heidelberg University Hospital?

A: Coronary angioplasty, bypass surgery (CABG), valve repair and replacement, arrhythmia ablation, pediatric heart surgery, and heart transplantation are routinely performed.

Q.2 Is TAVI/TAVR available at Heidelberg University Hospital?

A: Yes—Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is performed for high-risk patients with aortic stenosis using state-of-the-art technology.

Q.3 Can robotic or minimally invasive bypass surgery be performed here?

A: Yes, the hospital offers minimally invasive and robotic-assisted CABG procedures for selected patients.

Q.4 How can I book an appointment at Heidelberg University Hospital?

A: International and domestic patients can contact the Medical International Office, which assists with appointment scheduling, treatment planning, cost estimates, and coordination with the hospital’s specialists.

Q.5 Which cardiac conditions are treated at Heidelberg University Hospital?

A: All cardiac conditions are treated, including coronary artery disease, valve disorders, heart failure, arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, and vascular diseases.

Q.6 Does Heidelberg University Hospital use advanced cardiac technologies?

A: Yes, the hospital is equipped with advanced imaging (3D echocardiography, cardiac MRI), robotic-assisted surgery, minimally invasive devices, and modern catheterization technologies.

Q.7 What is the success rate of heart transplantation at Heidelberg University Hospital?

A: The hospital reports excellent outcomes, with one-year survival rates comparable to leading international cardiac centers.

Q.8 Are emergency cardiac services available 24×7?

A: Yes, the hospital provides round-the-clock emergency cardiac care, including catheterization and intensive care services.

Q.9 Who are the leading specialists in electrophysiology at Heidelberg University Hospital?

A: The electrophysiology team includes experienced cardiologists specializing in complex arrhythmia management and advanced ablation therapies.

Q.10 Does Heidelberg University Hospital treat children with congenital heart disease?

A: Yes, the Pediatric Heart Center provides comprehensive care for children with congenital heart defects, with excellent surgical and post-operative outcomes.