Heart transplant surgery has emerged as an important procedure for patients suffering from end-stage heart failure. As the prevalence of heart failure grows in India, the potential for heart transplant surgery in India is also rising.
While the benefits of heart transplant surgery are inevitable, it is also essential to understand the financial aspects of the surgery to help the patients and their families prepare for the surgery.
Read on for more details on heart transplant surgery, different factors affecting the cost, and comparing it with other countries!
What is Heart Transplant Surgery?
Heart transplant surgery is a surgical open-heart procedure that is performed in patients with acute and chronic heart failure. During the procedure, your defective heart is replaced with a heart from an organ donor.
It is a more complicated extensive procedure and may take longer. It improves the quality of life of patients and increases their life expectancy.
How Much Does a Heart Transplant Surgery Cost in India?
The cost of heart transplant surgery varies between INR 16,00,000- 27,00,000. It may increase depending on the age, underlying health conditions, and consistent follow-up
| Name of the cities | Approximate Cost |
| Mumbai | INR 18,00,000- 25,50,000 |
| New Delhi | INR 17,00,000- 26,50,000 |
| Chennai | INR 16,50,000- 25,00,000 |
| Bangalore | INR 18,00,000- 25,00,000 |
| Hyderabad | INR 18,00,000- 25,50,000 |
| Nagpur | INR 16,50,000- 24,00,000 |
| Gurugaon | INR 17,00,000- 25,00,000 |
Table: Cost of heart transplant surgery in different cities in India
Factors Affecting Heart Transplant Surgery Cost In India
The cost of heart transplant surgery may vary depending on different factors, including
- Diagnostic tests: The diagnostic tests to assess the patient, and their pre-existing conditions may affect the overall cost of the transplant surgery.
- Availability of donors: The availability of donors may affect the cost of transplant surgery. If the patients have to wait for a longer time, there may be increased expenses due to continuous care and assistance required.
- Post-surgery care: After the surgery, regular follow-ups and rehabilitation may add to the cost. If the patient develops complications, it may affect the overall cost.
- Location of the hospital: Heart transplant surgery cost varies depending on the hospital’s location. The infrastructure of the hospital may also have an impact on the price of the surgery.
- Surgeon’s expertise: A surgeon with many years of experience may charge more.
Cost Comparison of Heart Transplant Surgery in India vs. Other Countries
India is well known for heart surgeries, including heart transplant surgery due to its medical advancements, skilled surgeons, growing organ donation awareness, less waiting time, and patient care. Also, it is more affordable than many Western countries.
| Countries | Approximate Cost |
| India | $ 25,000-60,000 |
| Singapore | $300,000-600,000 |
| USA | $1 million to 1.5 million |
| Australia | AUD 250,000 – 400,000 |
| UK | Pound 30,000 – 70,000 |
Table: Cost of heart transplant surgery in India Vs. Other countries
Hidden Costs Associated with Heart Transplant Surgery
Heart transplant surgery may involve several hidden costs that patients should be aware of apart from the surgical fees. Certain hidden costs associated with heart transplant surgery are
- Medicines: These patients may need lifelong medications which may not be covered by insurance.
- Transportation costs: If the transplant center is far from home, there may be additional expenses for transportation and lodging.
- Rehabilitation program: Rehabilitation programs may have certain fees that is not covered by insurance.
- Emotional support: Certain patients may experience stress or anxiety which also will add to the costs. Also, patients require absence from work for extended periods which may affect their wages.
When Does A Person Need To Undergo Heart Transplant Surgery?
A person who has end-stage heart failure needs a heart transplant. Heart failure can be caused due to
- Cardiomyopathy
- Coronary artery disease
- Congenital heart disease
- Valvular heart disease
- Dangerous abnormal heart rhythms
These patients with heart failure may require a heart transplant if their condition hasn’t improved with medications or other surgeries.
Conclusion
Heart transplant surgery is a complex procedure and its cost is influenced by a variety of factors, including diagnostic evaluations, surgery, post-operative care, and medications. So, it is important for patients and their families to engage with healthcare providers and financial advisors to explore different options for their payment plans.For expert guidance on heart issues and heart transplant procedure, you may consult the skilled cardiologist Dr. Nikhil at Heart360 Care.
Frequently Asked Questions
The success rate and life expectancy after a heart transplant may vary based on different factors, including the overall health of patients and post-operative care. The immediate success rate of heart transplant surgery is over 90% of patients surviving the first year post-transplant.
Heart transplant surgery is a complicated surgery and the recovery time may be longer compared to other surgeries. Depending on the patient’s age and medical condition, it may vary from person to person. You may need to stay in the hospital for at least 10 days to three weeks depending on the complications. You may need many months to recover completely.
The most common risks and complications associated with heart transplant surgery are organ rejection, graft failure, and infections because of immune system suppression. You may also develop cardiac allograft vasculopathy, kidney disease, kidney failure, osteoporosis, nerve damage, arrhythmias, and high blood pressure. In rare circumstances, you may develop stroke, pain, and depression.
Yes, many insurance agencies cover heart transplant surgery but the extent of coverage may vary depending on the terms and circumstances of the specific policy and provider. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider about the specification.
Yes, there are age restrictions for heart transplant candidates but it may vary depending on the transplant centers and patient’s medical condition. A study showed that heart transplantation is safe for patients over age 60 with heart failure. In some cases, it may be possible in adults in the age group 70-75 if they have a proper match.
