Severe aortic stenosis is a life-threatening illness affecting the quality of life in patients. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has emerged as a recommended procedure for treating aortic stenosis and improving quality of life. As the demand for this minimally invasive approach grows, it is important to understand the costs associated with TAVR in India to help patients consider the life-saving intervention.
Keep reading to determine TAVR surgery, its cost, and factors affecting TAVR/TAVI cost!
What is TAVR And Its Advantages?
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) or Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a narrowed aortic valve with a biological tissue valve from a cow or pig. It is replaced through a small incision using the catheter.
It is performed on patients who cannot have heart surgery to replace the aortic valve. It is not an open-heart surgery. It is also called Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI).
The advantages of TAVR include
- Smaller incisions: TAVR involves small incisions compared to most heart surgeries that involve larger incisions.
- Less pain: It causes less pain due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure.
- Reduced rate of infection
- Quicker recovery time: As the number and size of incisions are small, there is less healing required for the body.
- Beneficial for high-risk patients: It is beneficial for high-risk patients who can not undergo conventional open heart surgery.
- Improved quality of life: Many patients report significant relief and enhanced quality of life following the procedure
What Is The Cost Of TAVR/TAVI Surgery In India?
The cost of the TAVR/TAVI procedure varies depending on the hospital’s location, the doctor’s expertise, and the patient’s medical condition.
The average cost of TAVR surgery in India varies between INR 5,00,000 – 15,00,000.
| Name of the city | Approximate Cost |
| Chennai | INR 6,00,000 – 12,00,000 |
| Pune | INR 6,00,000 – 11,00,000 |
| Mumbai | INR 8,00,000 – 15,00,000 |
| Delhi | INR 8,00,000 – 14,00,000 |
| Hyderabad | INR 6,00,000 – 11,00,000 |
| Kolkata | INR 7,00,000 – 10,00,000 |
| Bangalore | INR 8,00,000 – 12,00,000 |
Table: Cost of TAVR in different cities of India
What Are The Factors Affecting The Cost Of TAVR Procedure In India?
The different factors that affect the TAVR procedure cost in India are
- Pre-diagnostic care: The diagnostic tests before the surgery to prepare for the procedure will add to the cost.
- General health of the patient: Patients with underlying health conditions will need additional investigations and tests that will affect the overall cost.
- Doctor’s expertise: The overall cost of the surgery will increase with the level of the doctor’s expertise. Experienced doctors will charge more than others.
- Location of hospital: The hospital’s location also impacts the price of the surgery. Hospitals in populated and metropolitan cities will charge more. The room category chosen by the patient will also add to the cost.
- Post-operative care: Post-operative care, including medications, rehabilitation, and regular follow-ups, will add to the overall cost of the surgery.
- Insurance coverage: If your insurance policy covers TAVR, it may reduce your expenses, but if you don’t, the cost of the treatment will increase.
Cost of TAVR Procedure in India Vs. Other Countries
India is gaining prominence for its highly skilled cardiac surgeon and state-of-the-art facilities combined with affordable costs. Many hospitals offering TAVR procedures have accreditations from International organizations. The cost of the TAVI/TAVR procedure in India is much less than that of care in the US and other developed countries.
| Countries | Approximate Cost |
| India | INR 5,00,000 – 15,00,000 |
| USA | $50,000 – 100,000 |
| Australia | $30,000 – 100,000 |
| Singapore | SGD35,000- 40,000 |
| UK | Pound 20,000 to 40,000 |
Table: Cost of TAVR In India vs. other Countries
Why Is TAVR Required?
TAVR or TAVI is required for patients with progressive heart failure due to aortic valve stenosis, in which the heart’s aortic valve thickens and narrows. It is an alternative to open-heart aortic valve replacement surgery and requires a shorter hospital stay. Also, it helps in reducing shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain associated with aortic valve stenosis.
TAV may be required in patients with
- Severe aortic valve stenosis: Patients with aortic valve stenosis may experience chest pain and shortness of breath
- The aortic valve is not working: Patients who have a non-functioning aortic valve may have compromised heart function.
- Other medical conditions including lung, kidney disease, diabetes, COPD, or advanced age make open-heart surgery very risky
Why Choose Heart360 Care For TAVR/TAVI?
Heart360 Care led by Dr. Nikhil. P. J. Theckumparampil is one of the premier cardiac care facilities in Chennai for TAVR/TAVI.
Dr. Nikhil is one of the leading TAVR specialists in India renowned for his expertise in minimally invasive valve procedures. He provides clear communication and personalized treatment plans for the patients.
He has also performed over 400+ TAVR/TAVI incision-less valve replacements. If you are looking to consult for undergoing TAVR in Chennai, consider booking an appointment at Heart360 Care.
Conclusion
TAVR costs vary depending on location, hospital reputation, and patient-specific needs. India offers a more affordable TAVR option than other Western countries.
It is preferable to consult the specific hospital and experienced medical doctor for detailed pricing and any additional costs that may arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of TAVR/TAVI in India ranges from INR 5,00,000 to 15,00,000. It includes the cost of pre-operative assessments, surgery, hospital stay, and follow-up care. It may vary based on the hospital’s location, the surgeon’s expertise, and the specific medical condition of the patient.
TAVR procedure can not be had by patients who have had heart attack within the last month, congenital heart defects, space that is too short for the new valve to fit, other heart valve problems like mitral regurgitation, recent stroke, and severe kidney disease.
TAVR involves sophisticated medical devices and technology that can be expensive. It can be expensive as it is typically performed by highly trained cardiologists and will have comprehensive evaluations.
Yes, the TAVR procedure is typically covered by health insurance in India but it may vary depending on the specific insurance provider and policy. It is advisable to choose hospitals that are recognized by your insurance policy and consult your insurance provider to understand the specifications of your insurance coverage.
TAVR has a success rate of over 90% and many patients report significant improvements in symptoms and overall quality of life within weeks of the procedure. However, studies have shown that about 25 to 35% of patients who had TAVR either die or do not have a quality of life.
No, there is no difference between TAVI and TAVR, and describes the same procedure. They are different names and are often used interchangeably. The term TAVI is commonly used in the United Kingdom/Europe while TAVR is frequently used in the USA.
