Craniotomy Cost in India

What is Craniotomy Surgery?

Craniotomy surgery is a critical neurosurgical procedure that involves temporarily removing a part of the skull, known as a bone flap. The surgery relieves pressure on the brain, removes harmful lesions, and restores neurological function. 

Some craniotomy procedures use computers and imaging, like MRI or CT scans, to locate the area of the brain that needs treatment. This method may involve attaching a frame to the skull or using special markers on the scalp. When imaging is combined with a craniotomy, it is called a stereotactic craniotomy.

Types of Craniotomy Procedures

• Traditional Craniotomy: It involves a standard method for brain access.
• Keyhole Craniotomy: Minimally invasive and is used for smaller tumours and lesions.
• Awake Craniotomy: During this procedure, the patient remains awake to ensure critical brain functions remain intact after surgery.
• Endoscopic Craniotomy: This involves using a small camera for precise procedures.

Who Needs Craniotomy Surgery?

1. Brain Tumor Patients:

A craniotomy is often used to diagnose, remove, or treat brain tumours, including both benign and malignant types.

2. Those with Hematomas or Blood Clots:

Patients with subdural or extradural hematomas, which are blood clots pressing on the brain, may require a craniotomy to relieve pressure.

3. Aneurysm or Vascular Malformation Patients:

Craniotomy can be used to clip or repair aneurysms and address arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) or arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs).

4. Traumatic Brain Injury Victims:

Individuals with severe head injuries causing brain swelling or skull fractures may need a craniotomy to relieve intracranial pressure or repair fractures.

5. Epilepsy Patients:

In some cases, a craniotomy is performed to remove the part of the brain causing seizures.

6. Those with Infections or Abscesses:

Craniotomy can be used to drain brain abscesses or treat infections.

7. Patients Requiring Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS):

Individuals with movement disorders like Parkinson's disease may undergo a craniotomy for the implantation of DBS devices.

8. Skull Base Tumor Patients:

Complex tumors located at the base of the skull may require specialised craniotomy approaches like the orbitozygomatic or extended bifrontal craniotomy.

Always consult a doctor to determine if the surgery and the surgical procedure are the right options for you.

Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India at a Glance

Craniotomy surgery costs in India can broadly be categorised into the following approximate ranges:

• Minimum Cost: INR 160,000 (about USD 1,935)
• Average Cost: INR 250,000 to INR 500,000 (about USD 2,894 to USD 6,045)
• Maximum Cost: INR 800,000 (about USD 9,670)

These figures generally cover routine craniotomy surgery performed without complications.

Factors Influencing Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India

Several elements can influence your craniotomy procedure cost in India. The main factors include:

• Surgeon's Expertise and Experience: Fees for neurosurgeons vary based on their experience and reputation. Highly skilled surgeons may charge more due to their proven track record of successful outcomes.
• Procedure Complexity: The complexity of the surgery, such as whether it is a minimally invasive or traditional craniotomy, impacts costs. Minimally invasive procedures may have higher initial costs but can reduce recovery time and hospital stays.
• Pre- and Post-Operative Care: The costs associated with diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT scans), anaesthesia, ICU stays, and rehabilitation add to the overall expense.

City-Wise Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India

Here is an overview of craniotomy surgery costs in major Indian cities. USD equivalents are approximate and subject to currency fluctuations.

Major metropolitan cities have a wider cost range due to the presence of speciality hospitals. In contrast, Tier-2 cities often provide more affordable options while maintaining quality care. For accurate cost estimates, it's best to consult a healthcare provider.

India vs. Other Countries: Craniotomy Surgery Cost

Medical tourists often compare multiple destinations for the best combination of cost and expertise. Below is a generalised comparison:

India, for sure, provides a cost-effective balance between affordability and quality healthcare.

Additional Expenses: Pre- and Post-Craniotomy Surgery

Pre-Treatment Costs

• Consultations & Diagnostic Tests:
  • Specialist consult: INR 800–INR 2,000 (USD 9.2 - USD 23)
  • MRI Scan: INR 5,000–INR 10,000 (USD 58 - USD 116)
  • CT Scan: INR 2,000–INR 5,000 (USD 23 - USD 58)
  • EEG: INR 500–INR 2,000 (USD 6 - USD 23)
  • Blood Tests and Other Pre-Operative Tests: INR 5,000 - INR 10,000 (USD 58 - USD 116)
• Other Evaluations:
  • If you have coexisting conditions like hypertension or diabetes, additional tests may be required.

Post-Treatment Costs

• Medications: INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 (USD 60.98 to USD 121.95)
• Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy: INR 10,000 to INR 50,000 or more (USD 121.95 to USD 609.76 or more)
• Follow-Up Consultations: INR 500 to INR 2,000 per session (USD 6.10 to USD 24.39)

Unexpected Complications

In rare instances, re-hospitalization may add to your expenditure. Additionally, there is a slight possibility of complications such as:

• Bleeding and hematoma
• Infection
• Inflammation and fluid accumulation

These complications may require further medical intervention, which could increase costs.

Insurance Coverage and Financing

Most major Indian hospitals accept both domestic and international insurance, significantly reducing craniotomy surgery costs in India. Many health insurance policies include brain surgeries, like craniotomy, under critical illness, typically encompassing hospitalisation expenses, ICU charges, and pre- and post-operative care. It's crucial to verify that your policy explicitly covers brain surgery, as some policies might require a waiting period before coverage begins.

Financing options are available for individuals without complete insurance coverage, making affordable craniotomy surgery in India accessible. Hospitals and financial institutions often provide medical loans with zero-cost EMI plans, enabling patients to manage costs more comfortably. Clearly understanding insurance details and exploring financing opportunities can further ease the financial burden associated with craniotomy surgery in India.

Tips to Reduce Craniotomy Surgery Expenses

Follow these practical tips to save on your craniotomy surgery costs in India and be worry-free:

• Insurance Coverage: Ensure you have comprehensive health insurance that covers neurosurgical procedures. Check what percentage of the surgery is covered.
• Financing Options: Many hospitals offer EMI plans or medical loans with flexible repayment terms to help spread the financial burden over several months.
• Pre-Operative Tests: To avoid additional expenses, ensure that all necessary pre-operative tests are covered under your insurance or included in the hospital package.
• Negotiate with Hospitals: Some hospitals may be willing to negotiate costs, especially if you are paying out-of-pocket. It's worth asking for potential discounts.

These initiatives empower individuals to make well-informed, cost-effective decisions while prioritising their health.

Why Choose MediJourney?

Craniotomy surgery is a critical procedure demanding exceptional precision, skill, and meticulous care. Craniotomy surgery cost in India varies depending on multiple factors, such as hospital location, surgeon expertise, and the complexity of the procedure. 

Medijourney understands that planning for brain surgery overseas can seem daunting, which is why we're dedicated to providing complete support throughout your medical journey. 

We connect you with leading neurosurgeons and renowned hospitals in India, simplifying the process by managing visa requirements, travel arrangements, accommodations, and hospital logistics. Our end-to-end assistance ensures a smooth, worry-free experience, allowing patients to concentrate fully on their recovery. With Medijourney, patients and families can approach brain surgery with confidence and peace of mind.

Make us your partner in this critical phase, and get premium care at affordable prices. Contact us today!

FAQs

Q1. What types of imaging are used before and during a craniotomy?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans are commonly used both before and during a craniotomy to guide the surgical approach and enhance precision.

Q2. What postoperative care is required after a craniotomy?

Postoperative care typically includes monitoring in the intensive care unit (ICU), managing pain, preventing infection, and gradually resuming activities under medical supervision.

Q3. Can a craniotomy be performed while the patient is awake?

Yes, in certain cases, an awake craniotomy is performed, especially when the tumor is near areas controlling essential functions like speech or movement. Keeping the patient conscious allows surgeons to monitor and preserve these critical functions during the procedure.