Prof. Dr. Emir Solakovic was a distinguished Bosnian vascular and cardiac surgeon, medical educator, and public health advocate. Born in Sarajevo in 1954, he earned his medical degree from the University of Sarajevo and specialized in vascular and cardiac surgery in Germany. He led the Clinic for Vascular Surgery at KCUS and founded the private clinic “Dr. Solaković.” During the Bosnian War, he established and operated a field hospital under life-threatening conditions. He was known for demystifying medical concepts for the public and authored several health education books. His legacy is marked by clinical excellence, humanitarian service, and patient-centered care.
Personal Profile
Full Name: Emir Solaković
Profession: Vascular and Cardiac Surgeon, Medical Professor
Date of Birth: 1954 (Age at passing: 71)
Marital Status: Not publicly disclosed
Educational Status: Graduate (Medical Degree, Specializations in Vascular and Cardiac Surgery)
State of Origin: Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
Nationality: Bosnian
Early Life and Education
Prof. Dr. Emir Solaković was born in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1954. Raised in a modest household, he developed a strong sense of discipline and empathy early in life—qualities that would later shape his medical career. His early education in Sarajevo reflected a consistent pattern of academic excellence and a genuine interest in health sciences.
After completing his primary and secondary schooling, Solaković pursued a medical degree at the University of Sarajevo’s Faculty of Medicine. During his time at university, he demonstrated exceptional commitment to clinical knowledge and practical application, particularly in the field of cardiovascular medicine. This focus later influenced his specialization path.
Following general medical training, he specialized in vascular surgery at the Clinical Center University of Sarajevo. His precise surgical approach and patient-centered care earned recognition among colleagues and mentors. He then advanced his expertise in cardiac surgery through professional training in Germany, acquiring skills in modern surgical techniques and embracing global standards of medical care.
In addition to his formal qualifications, Solaković engaged in academic research and contributed to medical literature. His written work focused on vascular disease, surgical methodology, and advancements in patient outcomes. He maintained a dedication to education throughout his career, emphasizing ethics, emotional intelligence, and sound clinical judgment.
As a professor at the University of Sarajevo’s Faculty of Medicine, he educated many aspiring doctors and surgeons. His lectures stood out for their clarity and relevance to clinical practice. He encouraged analytical thinking and often reminded students of the human dimension in every medical interaction.
Prof. Dr. Solaković’s journey from a curious student to an accomplished medical professional was fueled by personal integrity, academic rigor, and a lasting commitment to improving patient care. His early life and education laid the groundwork for a career that influenced medical practice and training across Bosnia and Herzegovina and beyond.
Prof. Dr. Emir Solaković’s medical career was defined by clinical excellence, humanitarian service, and a deep commitment to public health. As one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most respected surgeons, his contributions spanned decades and left a lasting imprint on both institutional medicine and community health education.
After earning his medical degree from the University of Sarajevo, Solaković began his professional journey with a specialization in general and vascular surgery at the Clinical Center University of Sarajevo (KCUS). His surgical precision and calm demeanor quickly earned him recognition among peers and patients alike. He later expanded his expertise by completing a specialization in cardiac surgery in Germany, where he trained under leading European surgeons and adopted advanced techniques that he would later integrate into Bosnian clinical practice.
Solaković rose to become the Head of the Clinic for Vascular Surgery at KCUS, where he led a team of specialists in treating complex vascular conditions. Under his leadership, the clinic became a center of excellence, known for its high success rates and patient-centered approach. His work was not limited to the operating room; he was actively involved in developing protocols, mentoring junior doctors, and improving surgical outcomes through evidence-based practices.
One of the most defining moments of his career came during the Bosnian War in 1992. Amid the siege of Sarajevo, Solaković co-founded a wartime hospital that operated under extreme conditions. With limited resources and constant danger, he and his colleagues provided life-saving care to civilians and soldiers alike. His ability to remain composed and effective during this period earned him widespread respect and admiration. Many survivors credit him with saving their lives during one of the darkest chapters in the country’s history.
Following the war, Solaković continued to serve the public through both institutional and private practice. He founded the “Dr. Solaković” clinic in Sarajevo, which became known for its modern facilities and compassionate care. The clinic offered specialized services in vascular and cardiac surgery, and Solaković remained actively involved in patient consultations and surgical procedures until his final days.
Beyond his clinical work, Solaković was a passionate educator. As a professor at the University of Sarajevo’s Faculty of Medicine, he taught generations of medical students and surgical residents. His lectures were known for their clarity, practicality, and emphasis on ethical medical practice. He believed that technical skill must be matched by empathy and integrity, and he instilled these values in every student he mentored.
Solaković also became a prominent public health advocate. Through television appearances, interviews, and public lectures, he simplified complex medical topics for the general public. He spoke candidly about issues such as cholesterol, atherosclerosis, hormonal changes, and aging, encouraging people to take preventive measures and adopt healthier lifestyles. His ability to communicate in a relatable and direct manner made him a trusted voice in Bosnian households.
Throughout his career, Solaković authored several books and articles aimed at both medical professionals and lay audiences. His writings reflected his belief that knowledge should be accessible and actionable. He often emphasized that medicine is not just about treating illness but about empowering individuals to live healthier, more informed lives.
Prof. Dr. Emir Solaković’s medical career was a blend of surgical mastery, educational leadership, and public service. He was a doctor who treated patients with skill and compassion, a teacher who shaped future generations, and a communicator who brought health awareness to the masses.
Emir Solaković (Popular Book)
Prof. Dr. Emir Solaković was not only a skilled surgeon and educator but also a dedicated author who used his writing to promote health awareness among the general public. His most recognized book, Ti možeš sačuvati svoje srce (“You Can Save Your Heart”), reflects his commitment to preventive medicine and patient education. Written in accessible language, the book offers practical advice on heart health, lifestyle changes, and the importance of early intervention. It became a household reference for individuals seeking to improve their cardiovascular well-being without relying solely on clinical visits.
Latest News
The latest news confirms the passing of Prof. Dr. Emir Solaković, a revered Bosnian vascular surgeon and educator, on June 29, 2025, in Sarajevo. His death has deeply affected the medical community and the public, as he was widely respected for his clinical expertise, humanitarian work, and ability to communicate complex health topics in simple terms.
He served as Head of the Vascular Surgery Clinic at KCUS and was the founder of the private clinic “Dr. Solaković”. During the Bosnian War, he co-established a wartime hospital in Sarajevo, providing life-saving care under extreme conditions.
His recent appearance on the talk show Pressing drew significant attention, highlighting his continued commitment to public health education. Tributes describe him as a doctor who spoke the language of his patients, a professor who shaped generations, and a man whose empathy and clarity made him beloved across Bosnia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Prof. Dr. Emir Solaković?
A renowned Bosnian vascular and cardiac surgeon, professor, and public health advocate. He led the Vascular Surgery Clinic at KCUS and founded the private clinic “Dr. Solaković” in Sarajevo.
What were his areas of specialization?
He specialized in:
- Vascular Surgery
- Cardiac Surgery
- General Surgery
His advanced training in Germany shaped his expertise in modern surgical techniques.
What is he most known for?
- Exceptional skill in vascular and cardiac operations
- Humanitarian work during the 1992 Bosnian War
- Educating the public through media and books
Did he author any books?
Yes. His most notable work is:
Ti možeš sačuvati svoje srce (“You Can Save Your Heart”) The book offers practical cardiovascular health tips and lifestyle advice.
What role did he play during the Bosnian War?
He co-established a wartime hospital in Sarajevo during the 1992 siege, providing life-saving surgical care under extreme conditions.
Was he involved in medical education?
Yes. He served as a professor at the University of Sarajevo’s Faculty of Medicine, mentoring students and emphasizing ethics, clarity, and compassionate care.
How did he interact with the public?
- Television interviews
- Public health lectures
- Direct, accessible discussions on medical topics like cholesterol, aging, and heart disease
- His communication style was trusted and widely respected.
When did he pass away?
He passed away on June 29, 2025, in Sarajevo, at the age of 71.