Heart surgery is a necessary medical procedure that can be a lifesaver for individuals suffering from heart conditions. However, the rising cost of healthcare worldwide has made it increasingly challenging for patients to access affordable treatment options.

This predicament has led to the emergence of medical tourism, with India standing out as a preferred destination for heart surgery. Renowned for its high-quality healthcare infrastructure and skilled medical professionals, India offers an attractive combination of advanced technology, experienced cardiac surgeons, and cost-effective treatment.

In this blog, we will explore the cost of heart surgery in India and delve into the best hospitals in India. Whether seeking affordable options or superior medical care, India offers much for those considering heart surgery.

Heart Conditions that May Require Heart Surgery

Heart surgery is often recommended for various heart conditions that cannot be effectively treated with medication or less invasive procedures. However, it is important to note that the need for heart surgery depends on the severity of the condition and the individual patient’s circumstances.

Therefore, a thorough cardiologist or cardiac surgeon evaluation is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each case. Here are some of the common heart conditions that may require surgical intervention:

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

CAD occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrow or blocked due to plaque buildup. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or coronary angioplasty with stenting are commonly performed surgeries to restore blood flow to the heart muscles.

2. Heart Valve Disease

Heart valve disease can involve either valve stenosis (narrowing) or valve regurgitation (leaking). Surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged heart valves. Procedures such as valve repair, valve replacement, or transcatheter valve interventions (TAVR) can be performed depending on the severity and type of valve disease.

3. Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) and Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

ASD and VSD are congenital heart defects characterised by abnormal openings in the septum, the wall that separates the heart chambers. Surgical repair is often required to close these defects and prevent complications such as heart failure or pulmonary hypertension.

4. Aortic Aneurysm

An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal bulging or swelling of the aorta, the main artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the body. Surgery may be necessary to repair the aneurysm and prevent the risk of rupture, whch can be life-threatening.

5. Arrhythmias

Arrhythmias are irregular heart rhythms that can disrupt the normal functioning of the heart. In some cases, surgical procedures such as cardiac ablation, pacemaker implantation, or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) placement may be recommended to restore and regulate the heart’s rhythm.

6. Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

CHF occurs when the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. Surgery options for end-stage heart failure patients include heart transplantation or left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation.

7. Congenital Heart Defects

Complex congenital heart defects require surgical interventions in infancy, childhood, or adulthood. These may include procedures like the Fontan procedure, arterial switch operation, or the Ross procedure, among others, depending on the specific defect.

Factors Influencing Heart Surgery Costs in India

When considering heart surgery, the cost of the procedure is a crucial factor for patients and their families. India has gained recognition as a destination for affordable healthcare, including heart surgery. Here, we will explore the factors influencing the cost of heart surgery in India and compare them with other countries.

1. Hospital Infrastructure and Surgeon’s Experience

The infrastructure and facilities offered by the hospital play a significant role in determining the cost of heart surgery. Hospitals with state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced operation theatres, and specialised cardiac care units may charge higher.

In addition to this, the experience and reputation of the cardiac surgeon performing the procedure can affect the cost. Highly experienced surgeons with a successful track record may charge higher fees for their services.

2. Type of Heart Surgery and Duration of Stay

The complexity and type of heart surgery required also impact the cost. Procedures like CABG, valve replacement, or heart transplantation may have varying costs due to differences in surgical techniques, resources, and post-operative care required.

Furthermore, the length of hospital stay following heart surgery can contribute to the overall cost. Complex procedures or post-operative complications may require an extended hospital stay, increasing expenses.

3. Medical Technology and Equipment Used

Advanced medical technology improves surgical outcomes but may also influence costs. Advanced surgical techniques, such as minimally invasive or robotic-assisted surgery, can increase the cost of heart surgery.

These techniques often require specialised equipment, including robotic systems or advanced endoscopic instruments, which can be expensive to acquire and maintain.

4. Pre-operative Investigations and Post-operative Care

Before surgery, patients typically undergo various diagnostic tests and evaluations. The cost of pre-operative investigations, including blood tests, electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, and angiograms, can impact the overall expenses.

Similarly, the cost of post-operative care, including medications, follow-up consultations, rehabilitation programs, and physiotherapy, should be considered when calculating the total expenditure for heart surgery.

Cost Comparison: India vs Other Countries

Heart surgery costs in India are significantly lower compared to many Western countries, making it an attractive option for international patients. While costs can vary based on individual circumstances and hospital choices, the savings can be substantial.

For example, heart blockage surgery costs in India or heart replacement surgery costs in India can be approximately 60-70% lower compared to the United States or Western Europe.

It’s important to note that the lower cost does not compromise the quality of care. Many hospitals in India maintain international quality standards, employ highly skilled cardiac surgeons, and utilise advanced medical technology.

Heart Procedures and Their Approximate Costs in India

Here’s a tabular representation of different heart procedures and their approximate costs in India. However, it is important to note that these costs are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as hospital, location, complexity of the case, and any additional services required.

Thus it is important to consult with healthcare providers to know the exact procedure costs.

Top 10 Hospitals in India for Heart Surgery

When it comes to heart surgery, choosing the right hospital is paramount. India is home to several world-class hospitals that specialise in cardiac care. Here are the top 10 hospitals in India renowned for their expertise in heart surgery:

1. Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Delhi:

Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, located in New Delhi, has been a renowned cardiac centre in India for 32 years. It is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and offers a comprehensive range of cardiac procedures.

The hospital has a dedicated team of cardiac surgeons and cardiologists who provide personalised care to patients. Furthermore, it has over 300 beds and handles more than 14,000 admissions annually.

Fortis Escorts Heart Institute is known for its expertise in complex cardiac surgeries, including bypass surgery, valve replacement, and heart transplant. It is also one of India’s best hospitals for open heart surgery.

The hospital is equipped with five cath labs connected to an e-ICU, ad it also utilises advanced equipment such as dual CT scans with superior diagnostic potential.

Complex heart procedures such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation and Ventricular Assist Device Therapy are also performed here.

2. Narayana Health City, Bengaluru:

Narayana Health City, located in Bengaluru, is a comprehensive healthcare facility with a dedicated cardiac centre. NABH and JCI have accredited the Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences within NarayanaHealthh City.

The hospital strongly focuses on affordable cardiac care without compromising on quality. The hospital has 16 dedicated cardiac operation theatres and 6 digitally powered cath labs.

The cardiac centre is also equipped with advanced technology and offers various cardiac surgeries, including coronary artery bypass grafting, valve replacements, and heart transplant.

Narayana Health City is known for its skilled team of cardiac surgeons and excellent patient care. The facility also boasts the world’s largest dedicated pediatric cardiac ICU with 80 beds.

3. Apollo Hospitals, Chennai:

Apollo Hospitals in Chennai is one of India’s most respected healthcare providers. The hospital has a track record of performing 1,40,000 heart surgeries to date.

The hospital’s Cardiology Department has a team of renowned cardiac surgeons and cardiologists specialising in cardiac procedures, such as ischemic and valvular heart disease.

Apollo Hospitals has the latest technology for accurate diagnosis and advanced surgical interventions. Furthermore, the hospital utilises non-invasive diagnostic methods, including nuclear tracer imaging.

The hospital has a successful track record of performing complex heart surgeries and provides comprehensive post-operative care. It has a success rate of 99.6% for heart surgeries.

Specialised and adequately equipped UCCs (Urgent Care Centers) are available for individuals with cardio-thoracic issues, ensuring a personalised care approach with a care provider assigned for every patient at a ratio of 1:1.

4. Asian Heart Institute, Mumbai:

Asian Heart Institute (AHI), located in Mumbai, is India’s leading cardiac care centre. The hospital has performed over 24,000 heart surgeries with a more than 99% success rate.

AHI specialises in providing advanced cardiac treatment and surgery with a patient-centric approach. Some top heart procedures performed here include Bypass Surgery using arterial grafts, heart transplants, and valve surgeries.

The hospital has cutting-edge technology, including hybrid operating rooms and advanced catheterisation labs. The hospital is also known for performing breakthrough surgeries like open heart and pediatric heart surgeries.

AHI is known for its high success rates in complex cardiac surgeries and has a team of skilled cardiac surgeons and cardiologists. Cardiology procedures such as balloon valvuloplasty and non-operative heart closure are also performed at AHI.

5. Max Superspeciality Hospital, Saket, Delhi:

Max Superspeciality Hospital in Saket, Delhi, is renowned for its excellent cardiac care services. It is accredited with several national and international health organisations.

The hospital offers comprehensive cardiac treatment and surgery options, including coronary artery bypass grafting, valve replacements, and congenital heart defect repairs.

Max Superspeciality Hospital has a well-equipped cardiac catheterisation laboratory and a dedicated team of experienced cardiac surgeons and cardiologists. The hospital has 35 specialist departments for different heart issues, such as valvular dysfunction, heart failure, etc.

The hospital focuses on delivering personalised care and follows a multidisciplinary approach for the best outcomes. It has treated more than 35 lacs patients and has become a leading heart centre for cardiac patients nationwide seeking the best medical care.

6. Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi:

Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in Delhi is a renowned healthcare facility with a highly specialised cardiac unit. The hospital is a part of the Apollo group and was established in 1999.

The hospital offers a comprehensive range of cardiac procedures, including minimally invasive heart surgeries, robotic-assisted surgeries, and heart transplants.

The hospital is best known for Coronary Artery Stenting and Laser Angioplasty procedures. In addition, congenital heart defects, pediatric thoracic surgeries, and valve surgeries are also performed here.

Indraprastha Apollo Hospital has a patient facility of more than 1000 beds and a dedicated team of cardiac surgeons, cardiologists, and support staff who provide world-class patient care.

The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and adheres to international quality standards. The hospital has a success rate of more than 95% for surgeries comprising heart issues.

7. Nanavati Hospital, Mumbai:

Nanavati Hospital, located in Mumbai, is one of the oldest and best hospitals for heart surgery.

The hospital features a 350-bed facility, providing comprehensive healthcare services. It houses the first catheterisation laboratory in Mumbai, offering advanced diagnostic and interventional procedures.

Nanavati Hospital offers additional facilities such as visa processing, currency exchange, airport transfers, nutritional advice, and accommodation for international patients.

The cardiology department at Nanavati Hospital is highly regarded and serves patients worldwide. The hospital provides advanced diagnostic facilities and specialised heart packages, including blood tests and scanning procedures.

Cardiac interventions performed at Nanavati Hospital include minimal access cardiac bypass surgery, beating heart bypass surgery (Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting), redo heart surgery, and treatment for coronary aneurysms.

8. Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru:

Manipal Hospitals in Bengaluru is a renowned healthcare institution with a dedicated cardiac care centre. It is a part of the Manipal Education and Medical Group.

The hospital offers various cardiac procedures, including coronary artery bypass grafting, valve replacements, and electrophysiological studies.

Manipal Hospital is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, skilled cardiac surgeons, and patient-centric care approach. It has 24X7 intensive care facilities, blood banks, and NICUs for round-the-clock patient support.

The hospital’s Cardiology Department utilises advanced technology and follows evidence-based treatment protocols. Treatments at Manipal Hospital include coronary angioplasty, coronary angiography, transaortic valve implantations, and more.

The hospital is equipped with two digitally powered cath labs and is known for its percutaneous coronary intervention procedures and implantation of cardiac devices such as pacemakers and CRT implants.

9. Medanta – The Medicity, Gurugram:

Medanta – The Medicity is a multi-speciality hospital in Gurugram, near Delhi. It houses the renowned Medanta Heart Institute, one of the country’s largest cardiac care centres.

The Heart Institute offers cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment facilities, including advanced catheterisation labs and hybrid operating rooms.

The team of cardiac surgeons at Medanta is highly skilled and experienced in performing various cardiac procedures, including coronary artery diseases, atrial septal defects, heart valve leakage, and heart failure.

The hospital also boasts a hybrid operating suite, robotic heart surgery capabilities, and minimally invasive techniques. These advanced tools enable it to provide exceptional precision and accuracy in its heart procedures.

10. Artemis Hospital, Delhi:

The hospital is outfitted with advanced medical equipment, including the Philips FD20/10 Catheterisation laboratory featuring stent boost technology and total arterial revascularisation (ART).

The hospital’s Cardiology Department specialises in cardiac procedures, including coronary artery bypass grafting, valve replacements, and cardiac electrophysiology.

Additionally, they possess cutting-edge imaging tools, such as 64-slice cardiac computed tomography, 3 Tesla MRI, and high-end colour Doppler ultrasound systems, for accurate and detailed medical imaging.

The hospital also has a specialised Endovascular suite designed to carry out neuro-interventional cardiac catheterisation and peripheral endovascular procedures. In addition to this, it also has a cath lab to perform angioplasties.

These top hospitals in India for heart surgery are recognised for their exceptional cardiac care services, advanced infrastructure, skilled medical professionals, and successful patient outcomes. It is important to consider individual medical needs, location, and specific requirements when choosing a hospital for heart surgery.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, India has emerged as a leading destination for heart surgery, offering world-class medical expertise and cost-effective treatments. The best hospitals for heart surgery in India, such as Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Medanta – The Medicity, Narayana Health City, Asian Heart Institute, Max Superspeciality Hospital, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Artemis Hospital, and more, boast state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced technology, and highly skilled medical professionals.

These hospitals specialise in various cardiac procedures, providing comprehensive care and successful outcomes. However, patients must consider factors like their medical condition, location, and financial considerations when selecting a hospital for heart surgery.

Thus it is advised to consult with healthcare providers and conduct thorough research to help individuals make informed decisions and receive the best possible cardiac care in India.

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