Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery Cost in India

What is Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery (MIHS)?

Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery, often referred to as "keyhole heart surgery," is a collective term for various surgical procedures performed through small incisions rather than a large opening in the chest. Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, which requires a sternotomy (cutting through the breastbone), MIHS utilises specialised instruments and advanced imaging techniques to access and repair the heart.

Key Techniques in MIHS:

• Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS): A tiny camera (endoscope) and specialised instruments are inserted through small incisions between the ribs. The surgeon uses the camera's visual feed to guide the procedure.
• Robot-Assisted Surgery: Robotic arms are used to perform the surgery with enhanced precision and control. The surgeon operates a console that translates their movements to the robotic arms inside the chest.
• Port Access Surgery: Small ports are created in the chest, allowing access for specialised instruments to operate on the heart.
• Mini-Thoracotomy: A small incision is made on the side of the chest to directly access the heart without spreading the breastbone.

Benefits of MIHS:

• Reduced Chest Trauma: Smaller incisions minimise trauma to the chest, leading to less pain and faster healing.
• Faster Recovery Time: Patients typically experience shorter hospital stays and can return to normal activities sooner.
• Improved Cosmetic Outcomes: Smaller scars are less noticeable.
• Reduced Pain and Discomfort: Less post-operative pain compared to open-heart surgery.
• Lower Risk of Infection: Smaller incisions reduce the risk of infection.
• Less Blood Loss: Often requires fewer blood transfusions.
• Preservation of Sternum: Avoids sternal healing complications.

Why Choose India for Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery?

India has become a global hub for medical tourism, particularly for cardiac procedures. Here's why:

• Significant Cost Savings: MIHS in India can cost 60-80% less than in the United States or the United Kingdom. This allows you to access high-quality care without breaking the bank.
• World-Class Hospitals: Indian hospitals boast state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technology, and internationally accredited standards (JCI, NABH). They consistently deliver outcomes comparable to the best hospitals worldwide.
• Highly Experienced Surgeons: India has a vast pool of highly skilled and experienced cardiac surgeons who are experts in MIHS techniques. Many have trained at leading medical institutions globally.
• Cutting-Edge Technology: Indian hospitals have invested heavily in advanced technology, including robotic surgery systems and sophisticated imaging equipment, ensuring the highest level of precision and care.
• No Waiting Lists: Unlike many Western countries, you can often access MIHS in India with minimal or no waiting lists, allowing you to receive timely treatment.
• Comprehensive Medical Tourism Infrastructure: Medical tourism companies like Medijourney provide comprehensive support services for international patients, including visa assistance, airport transfers, accommodation arrangements, language assistance, and 24/7 customer support. It handles the logistics so that you can focus on your health.

Types of Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery Procedures Offered in India

Indian hospitals offer a wide range of MIHS procedures:

• Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): Bypassing blocked coronary arteries to restore blood flow to the heart.
  • Condition Treated: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
  • Procedure: Small incisions are used to harvest a healthy blood vessel (usually from the leg or chest) and graft it onto the heart to bypass the blocked artery.
  • Benefits: Reduced chest trauma, faster recovery, less pain.
  • Recovery: Expect a hospital stay of 3-5 days and a return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks.
• Mitral Valve Repair or Replacement: Repairing or replacing a damaged mitral valve.
  • Condition Treated: Mitral Valve Regurgitation or Stenosis
  • Procedure: MIHS techniques are used to repair a leaky mitral valve or replace it with a mechanical or biological valve.
  • Benefits: Reduced risk of stroke, improved heart function.
  • Recovery: Expect a hospital stay of 4-7 days and a return to normal activities within 6-8 weeks.
• Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR - Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement): Replacing a diseased aortic valve using a catheter-based approach.
  • Condition Treated: Aortic Valve Stenosis
  • Procedure: A new aortic valve is inserted through a catheter, typically inserted through the groin or leg, and guided to the heart.
  • Benefits: Less invasive than traditional aortic valve replacement, shorter recovery time.
  • Recovery: Expect a hospital stay of 2-4 days and a return to normal activities within a few weeks.
• Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Closure: Closing a hole in the wall between the heart's upper chambers.
  • Condition Treated: Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)
  • Procedure: A device is inserted through a catheter to close the hole in the atrial septum.
  • Benefits: Prevents abnormal blood flow, reduces the risk of stroke and heart failure.
  • Recovery: Expect a hospital stay of 1-2 days and a return to normal activities within a few weeks.
• Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) Closure: Closing a hole in the wall between the heart's lower chambers.
  • Condition Treated: Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)
  • Procedure: Similar to ASD closure, a device is used to close the hole in the ventricular septum.
  • Benefits: Prevents abnormal blood flow, reduces the risk of heart failure.
  • Recovery: Expect a hospital stay of 2-3 days and a return to normal activities within a few weeks.
• Atrial Fibrillation Ablation: Treating atrial fibrillation by creating scar tissue in the heart to block abnormal electrical signals.
  • Condition Treated: Atrial Fibrillation
  • Procedure: Catheters are used to deliver radiofrequency energy or cryoablation to create scar tissue in the heart.
  • Benefits: Reduces the frequency and severity of atrial fibrillation episodes.
  • Recovery: Expect a hospital stay of 1-2 days and a return to normal activities within a few weeks.

Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery Cost in India

The average cost of Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery in India ranges from USD 3,100 to USD 5,500. However, the exact cost can vary based on several factors.

Factors Affecting the Cost:

The factors determining the price of Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery in India can be broadly classified as Hospital, Medical Team, or Patient-Dependent factors.

Hospital Factors

• Type of the hospital (Government/Trust/Private)
• Use of insurance, type of insurance or self-paid
• Accreditation of the facility
• Reputation and brand value of the hospital

Medical Team Factors

• Technology / Approach Used
• Surgery Type
• Type of Anesthesia or Sedation
• Qualification / Expertise of the specialist
• Extent of the surgery needed

Patient Factors

• Patient’s diagnosis
• Patient’s general health
• Room Category selected by the patient
• Other treatment required by the patient in conjunction

Pre- and Post-Treatment Costs for Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery in India

In addition to the actual treatment costs, there are several other expenses associated with MIHS in India. These include:

Pre-Treatment Costs

Before undergoing surgery, several diagnostic tests and consultations are required.

• Doctor Consultation Fees – INR 1,000 to 3,000 ($12 – $36) per visit
• ECG (Electrocardiogram) – INR 500 to 1,500 ($6 – $18)
• Echocardiogram – INR 2,000 to 5,000 ($24 – $60)
• Chest X-ray – INR 500 to 2,000 ($6 – $24)
• Cardiac MRI/CT Scan – INR 10,000 to 25,000 ($120 – $300)
• Blood Tests – INR 2,000 to 5,000 ($24 – $60)
• Coronary Angiography – INR 8,000 to 20,000 ($96 – $240)
• Hospital Admission and Pre-Surgery Medication – INR 10,000 to 30,000 ($120 – $360)

Estimated Pre-Treatment Cost: INR 20,000 to 80,000 ($240 – $960)

Post-Treatment Costs

Following surgery, patients require medications, follow-ups, and rehabilitation for proper recovery.

• ICU and Hospital Stay (if extended beyond package) – INR 15,000 to 50,000 ($180 – $600) per day
• Medications & Blood Thinners – INR 3,000 to 10,000 ($36 – $120) per month
• Follow-up Consultations – INR 1,000 to 3,000 ($12 – $36) per visit
• Cardiac Rehabilitation (Physiotherapy & Diet Consultation) –  INR 2,000 to 10,000 ($24 – $120) per session
• Repeat Diagnostic Tests (ECG, Echocardiogram, etc.) – INR 5,000 to 15,000 ($60 – $180)
• Lifestyle Modifications (Diet, Exercise, Counseling) – INR 5,000 to 20,000 ($60 – $240)

Estimated Post-Treatment Cost: INR 30,000 to 1,50,000 ($360 – $1,800)

Cost comparison table showing the estimated cost of MIHS in India vs. other countries

Please note that the above table provides an approximate estimate of the costs associated with MIHS in India and other countries. Actual expenses may vary based on the hospital, surgeon’s expertise, patient’s medical condition, and additional requirements such as extended hospital stays or unforeseen complications. It is always recommended to consult with the healthcare provider for precise cost estimates.

Average cost of the Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery across top 10 cities in India

The list of the average cost of the Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery across the top 10 cities in India in INR and USD is as follows :

Who Is the Ideal Candidate for Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery?

MIHS is a suitable option for many patients with heart conditions, but it's not right for everyone. The best way to determine your eligibility is to consult with a qualified cardiac surgeon.

Generally, MIHS may be a good option if you have:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD) requiring bypass surgery
• Mitral valve disease (regurgitation or stenosis)
• Aortic valve stenosis (TAVR)
• Atrial septal defect (ASD)
• Ventricular septal defect (VSD)
• Atrial fibrillation

Potential Risks and Complications

While MIHS is generally safe, like all surgical procedures, it carries some risks, including:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Blood clots
• Arrhythmias
• Conversion to open-heart surgery (rare)

Recovery After Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery

The recovery process after MIHS is typically faster and less painful than after traditional open-heart surgery.

• Hospital Stay: Expect a hospital stay of 2-5 days, depending on the procedure.
• Pain Management: Pain medication will be prescribed to manage any discomfort.
• Wound Care: Follow instructions for caring for your incisions to prevent infection.
• Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks.
• Dietary Recommendations: Follow a heart-healthy diet.
• Cardiac Rehabilitation: Participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program to help you regain strength and endurance.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon.

Timeline:

• First Week: Focus on rest and pain management.
• First Month: Gradually increase your activity level.
• Six Weeks: Most patients can return to their normal activities.

Why Choose Medijourney?

At Medijourney, we make your medical travel seamless and stress-free. Whether you need advanced treatment, expert doctors, or comfortable accommodations, we ensure you receive the best care in India. Here’s why patients trust us:

• Expertise in Medical Tourism: We have years of experience helping international patients access high-quality medical care in India.
• Network of Top Hospitals and Surgeons: We partner with the best hospitals and surgeons in India, ensuring you receive the best possible care.
• Personalised Care and Support: We provide personalised care and support throughout your medical journey, from your initial consultation to your post-operative care.
• Transparent Pricing: We provide transparent pricing and help you find the most affordable treatment options.
• Visa and Travel Assistance: We assist with visa applications and travel arrangements.
• Language Support: We provide language assistance to ensure clear communication.
• Accommodation Arrangements: We help you find comfortable and convenient accommodation.
• 24/7 Customer Service: We are available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns.