Cost and Overview
The cost of Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR) surgery in India depends on the hospital, surgeon fees, procedure complexity, and patient health. However, it’s generally 40-70% cheaper than in Western countries. International patients can expect to pay between USD 7,500 and USD 8,500, while Indian patients typically spend INR 3.25 lakh to INR 4.32 lakh. Private hospitals often charge more than government-run facilities.
Introduction to AVR Surgery
Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR) surgery has significantly improved the lives of patients with aortic valve diseases. The aortic valve plays a critical role in heart function, regulating blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta.
Recent Trends in AVR Surgery
Several trends have recently shaped AVR surgery:
1. Minimally Invasive Approaches: Minimally invasive techniques have gained popularity in AVR surgery. These methods involve smaller incisions, leading to less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery.
2. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR): TAVR is a breakthrough that enables valve replacement without open-heart surgery. It involves placing a collapsible replacement valve through a catheter, typically via the femoral artery. TAVR is revolutionary, especially for high-risk patients.
3. Advancements in Valve Prostheses: Bioprosthetic valves (from animal tissue) and mechanical valves (from durable materials) have improved, offering surgeons better options. These advances have enhanced the durability and performance of replacement valves, improving patient outcomes.
4. Enhanced Imaging Technologies: Advanced imaging, like echocardiography and cardiac CT scans, helps surgeons accurately assess the aortic valve and plan the surgery. These imaging tools ensure precise valve sizing, reducing complications.
Why Choose India for AVR Surgery?
India is a top choice for AVR surgery due to several reasons:
1. Expertise and Experience: Indian hospitals employ highly skilled cardiac surgeons with extensive experience in AVR surgeries. Many have training in the latest techniques, ensuring world-class care.
2. Cost-Effectiveness: AVR surgery in India is more affordable than in many other countries, including costs for pre-operative tests, hospital stays, and post-operative care, without compromising on quality.
3. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Indian hospitals for AVR surgery feature modern infrastructure and advanced medical technologies, including the latest surgical equipment, intensive care units, and cardiac rehabilitation centers.
4. No Waiting Lists: Unlike some countries with long waiting lists, India offers prompt scheduling for AVR surgery, minimizing disease progression and improving patient outcomes.
Top Hospitals in India for AVR Surgery
1. All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi: Known for excellence in cardiac care and research, AIIMS offers advanced technology, hybrid operating rooms, and robotic systems. Their expert cardiac surgeons perform many successful AVR surgeries.
2. Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, New Delhi: A leading cardiac care center, Fortis Escorts specializes in complex cardiac procedures like AVR. They have a dedicated department for valve repair and replacement, providing personalized care.
3. Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences, Bangalore: Renowned for comprehensive cardiac care, Narayana’s cardiac surgery department handles a range of procedures, including AVR, with a skilled team and advanced facilities.
4. Medanta – The Medicity, Gurugram: A multi-specialty hospital with world-class cardiac care, Medanta’s Heart Institute offers various cardiac surgeries, including AVR. Their internationally recognized surgeons use the latest techniques and technologies.
How We Can Help
Athayush offers an array of complementary healthcare concierge services designed to support medical travellers every step of the way:
1. Consultation and Treatment Planning: A thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history is essential to formulate an effective treatment plan.
2. Access to Physician Credentials: We facilitate the transfer of medical records to physicians to inform treatment decisions and cost considerations.
3. Expert Second Opinions: Patients can receive a second opinion on their medical reports from our specialist doctors, typically within a 72-hour timeframe.
4. Cost-Effective Treatment Options: Patients will receive multiple proposals from various hospitals, detailing both medical opinions and the associated costs.
5. Medical Visa Facilitation: Once treatment plans and hospital visits are confirmed, Athayush assists with the medical visa application process, including the provision of necessary invitation letters from hospitals for visa submission.
6. Detailed Treatment Program: Additional contact details are provided to ensure seamless communication while the patient is under medical care.
7. Dedicated Case Manager: From the moment patients arrive for treatment, they are assigned a personal case manager to oversee their care and address any issues that may arise, including any hospital or doctor discrepancies.
8. Language Interpretation Services: If needed, interpretation services are available to ensure clear and effective communication throughout the medical process.
9. Family Communication Assistance: We aid in maintaining communication with the patient’s family, providing essentials such as phone cards or mobile phones.
10. Travel Coordination: Athayush provides complimentary transportation services for patients, including airport pickups and drop-offs.
11. Rehabilitation and Post-care Services: Comprehensive post-acute care and rehabilitation services are arranged to support the patient’s recovery.
12. Wellness and Recuperation Packages: Patients can enjoy pre and post-treatment wellness packages, which include activities like yoga and spiritual classes, all hosted in luxurious 4 to 5-star resort settings.
13. Ongoing Care Post-Return: Continuous care and support are extended to patients once they return home, ensuring their recovery process is as smooth as possible.
Athayush is committed to ensuring that every aspect of the medical travel process is handled with the utmost care and professionalism, making the journey to recovery as comfortable and stress-free as possible.