Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Cost in India

What is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)?

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a neurosurgical procedure that involves implanting electrodes in specific areas of the brain to modulate abnormal electrical activity. These electrodes are connected to a small device, similar to a pacemaker, implanted under the skin in the chest. The device delivers controlled electrical pulses to the brain, alleviating symptoms of various neurological disorders.

Why Choose India for Deep Brain Stimulation?

India has emerged as a global hub for medical tourism, particularly for neurological procedures. Here's why:

• Significant Cost Savings: DBS 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 straining your finances.
• 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 Neurosurgeons: India has a vast pool of highly skilled and experienced neurosurgeons who are experts in DBS techniques. Many have trained at leading medical institutions globally.
• Cutting-Edge Technology: Indian hospitals have invested heavily in advanced technology, including advanced neuroimaging equipment, intraoperative monitoring systems, and the latest DBS devices, ensuring the highest level of precision and care.
• No Waiting Lists: Unlike many Western countries, you can often access DBS 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.

Conditions Treated with Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) in India

Indian hospitals offer DBS for a wide range of neurological disorders:

• Parkinson’s Disease: DBS helps control motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, slow movement (bradykinesia), and involuntary muscle contractions (dystonia) in Parkinson’s patients. It allows reduced medication dependency and improved quality of life.
• Essential Tremor: This condition causes involuntary shaking, usually in the hands, head, or voice. DBS can significantly reduce tremors, making daily activities more manageable for patients.
• Dystonia: A neurological disorder causing involuntary muscle contractions, leading to abnormal postures and repetitive movements. DBS is especially effective in treating generalised or focal dystonia.
• Epilepsy: DBS is used for drug-resistant epilepsy, helping reduce seizure frequency in patients who do not respond well to medications. It is typically considered when surgery is not an option.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): For severe, treatment-resistant OCD, DBS can help regulate brain circuits associated with compulsive behaviors and intrusive thoughts, providing relief when psychotherapy and medications fail.
• Tourette Syndrome: DBS can help manage severe tics and associated behavioral symptoms in patients with Tourette syndrome when other treatments are ineffective.
• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): In some cases, DBS is explored as an option for treatment-resistant depression, helping regulate mood-related brain activity.
• Chronic Pain Disorders: Certain types of severe, untreatable chronic pain, including neuropathic pain, may be managed using DBS when conventional treatments fail.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Cost in India

The average cost of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) in India ranges from USD 9,000 to USD 18,000. However, the exact cost can vary based on several factors.

Factors Affecting the Cost:

The factors determining the price of Deep Brain Stimulation 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
• Technology and Infrastructure available

Medical Team Factors:

• Experience and expertise of the neurosurgeon
• Anesthesiologist fees
• Type of DBS device used
• Complexity of the surgery
• Use of advanced imaging and monitoring techniques

Patient Factors:

• Patient's diagnosis and overall health condition
• Severity of the condition
• Pre-existing medical conditions
• Length of hospital stay
• Type of room selected

Pre- and Post-Treatment Costs for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) in India

In addition to the actual treatment costs, there are several other expenses associated with DBS 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
• MRI Brain – INR 8,000 to 20,000 ($96 – $240)
• CT Scan Brain – INR 5,000 to 15,000 ($60 – $180)
• Neurological Examination – INR 2,000 to 5,000 ($24 – $60)
• Psychological Evaluation – INR 2,000 to 5,000 ($24 – $60)
• Blood Tests – INR 2,000 to 5,000 ($24 – $60)
• Hospital Admission and Pre-Surgery Medication – INR 10,000 to 30,000 ($120 – $360)

Estimated Pre-Treatment Cost: INR 30,000 to 90,000 ($360 – $1080)

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 – INR 3,000 to 10,000 ($36 – $120) per month
• Follow-up Consultations – INR 1,000 to 3,000 ($12 – $36) per visit
• Programming and Adjustments – INR 5,000 to 15,000 ($60 – $180) per session
• Physical Therapy – INR 2,000 to 10,000 ($24 – $120) per session
• Repeat MRI – INR 8,000 to 20,000 ($96 – $240)

Estimated Post-Treatment Cost: INR 35,000 to 1,60,000 ($420 – $1920)

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

Please note that the above table provides an approximate estimate of the costs associated with DBS 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 Deep Brain Stimulation across top 10 cities in India

The list of average cost of DBS across the top 10 cities in India in INR and USD is as follows:

Who Is the Ideal Candidate for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)?

DBS is a suitable option for many patients with neurological disorders, but it's not right for everyone. The best way to determine your eligibility is to consult with a qualified neurosurgeon.

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

• Parkinson's disease with motor fluctuations and tremors that are not well controlled with medication.
• Essential tremor that significantly impacts your quality of life.
• Dystonia that causes involuntary muscle contractions and abnormal postures.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that is severe and treatment-resistant.
• Epilepsy that is not well controlled with medication.

Potential Risks and Complications of DBS

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

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Stroke
• Seizures
• Hardware malfunction
• Lead migration
• Side effects such as speech difficulties, balance problems, and mood changes

Recovery After Deep Brain Stimulation

The recovery process after DBS typically involves:

• Hospital Stay: Expect a hospital stay of 2-3 days.
• 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 strenuous activities for several weeks.
• Programming and Adjustments: Regular programming sessions will be needed to optimise the stimulation settings.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your neurosurgeon.

Timeline:

• First Week: Focus on rest and wound healing.
• First Month: Gradually increase your activity level.
• Several Months: Programming and adjustments will continue to optimise symptom control.

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.