Heart valve replacement surgery is a medical procedure that involves the replacement of a damaged or diseased heart valve with a new one. The heart has four valves that regulate the flow of blood through the heart and throughout the body.
When one or more of these valves become damaged or diseased, it can affect the heart’s ability to function properly. This article mainly focuses on heart valve replacement surgery, its types, surgery process, and the cost of heart valve replacement surgery in India.
Types of heart valve replacement surgery
There are two types of heart valve replacement surgery: open-heart surgery and minimally invasive surgery. In open-heart surgery, the surgeon makes a large incision in the chest and opens the chest cavity to access the heart.
This allows the surgeon to remove the damaged valve and replace it with a new one. In minimally invasive surgery, the surgeon makes several small incisions in the chest and uses specialized instruments to access the heart. This approach is less invasive and can result in a faster recovery time.
Cost of heart valve replacement surgery in India
The average cost of heart valve replacement surgery in India is between USD 6,200 and USD 8,200. However, costs can vary depending on the location and type of hospital or medical facility where the procedure is performed.
For example, the cost of a heart valve replacement in Kolkata ranges from Rs. 120,000 to Rs. 450,000, while in Mumbai it ranges from Rs. 115,000 to Rs. 1,000,000.
The average cost of heart valve replacement surgery in India is around Rs. 2,90,000 ($3500) to Rs. 5,75,000 ($7000). Patients need to discuss all potential costs with their healthcare provider and insurance company before undergoing heart valve replacement surgery in India.
Who needs heart valve replacement surgery?
Heart valve replacement surgery is needed when one or more of the heart valves are damaged or diseased, which can cause the heart to work harder and lead to heart failure over time.
The surgery is done to replace or repair the damaged heart valves, which can improve the heart’s ability to pump blood and reduce the risk of serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, or lung problems.
However, like any surgery, there are risks associated with heart valve replacement surgery, such as bleeding, blood clots, infection, pneumonia, pancreatitis, and breathing problems.
Pre-surgery procedures
Before the surgery, the patient will undergo a series of tests to evaluate their overall health and determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
The surgery itself typically takes several hours and is performed under general anesthesia. After the surgery, the patient will be monitored closely in the intensive care unit for several days to ensure that their heart is functioning properly.
Post-surgery procedures
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and the patient’s overall health. In general, patients who undergo minimally invasive surgery tend to have a faster recovery time and experience less pain and scarring than those who undergo open-heart surgery.
However, both types of surgery require a period of rest and rehabilitation to allow the heart to heal properly.
Heart valve replacement surgery is a highly effective treatment for patients with damaged or diseased heart valves. It can improve the patient’s quality of life and reduce the risk of serious complications such as heart failure and stroke.
Factors that affect the cost of heart valve replacement surgery in India
Several factors can affect the cost of heart valve replacement surgery in India. One of the primary factors is the type of valve replacement procedure performed, with mechanical and bio-prosthetic valves being less expensive than other options.
Additionally, the hospital or medical facility where the procedure is performed can impact the cost, with average costs ranging from USD 6,200 to USD 12,000.
Other factors that can affect the cost include the patient’s overall health and medical history, the severity of the valve disease, and any additional costs associated with follow-up care, medication, and rehabilitation after the surgery.
Patients need to discuss all potential costs with their healthcare provider and insurance provider before undergoing heart valve replacement surgery in India.
Overview
In conclusion, heart valve replacement surgery is a complex procedure that requires the expertise of skilled surgeons and a dedicated team of healthcare professionals.
While it can be a daunting prospect, it is a highly effective treatment that can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life. If you or a loved one is considering heart valve replacement surgery, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine if it is the right course of treatment for you.
