Bypass Surgery Cost in Kochi

What is Bypass Surgery?

Bypass surgery, or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), is a surgical procedure designed to restore adequate blood flow to the heart. It is required when the coronary arteries become obstructed due to plaque buildup. During the surgery, a healthy blood vessel from the leg, arm, or chest is bypassed around the blocked artery, allowing oxygen-rich blood to reach the heart effectively.

CABG is often recommended for patients with severe coronary artery disease (CAD), especially when medications or less invasive treatments, like angioplasty, fail. The procedure significantly reduces the risk of heart attacks and relieves symptoms, such as chest pain and shortness of breath. Although complex, CABG can lead to improved quality of life and increased longevity.

What is the Cost of Bypass Surgery in Kochi?

The cost of bypass surgery in Kochi varies depending on the hospital, the surgeon’s expertise, and the patient’s condition. Hospitals with state-of-the-art equipment and skilled surgeons tend to charge more. Below is an overview of typical bypass surgery costs in Kochi.

• Minimum Bypass Surgery Cost in Kochi: ₹3,52,565 to ₹8,29,431
• Maximum Bypass Surgery Cost in Kochi: ₹6,21,521 to ₹12,47,019

Disclaimer: The price mentioned above is not precise. It may vary for different types of bypass surgery and from one hospital in Kochi to another.

What is the Cost of Different Components of Bypass Surgery in Kochi?

Bypass surgery costs in Kochi are not just about operation theatre charges but several components. The various components of a bypass surgery and their costs are given in the table below:

Disclaimer: The prices mentioned above are not precise. It may vary for different types of bypass surgery and from one hospital in Kochi to another.

What are the Types of Bypass Surgery in Kochi?

Bypass surgery is tailored to address each patient's specific health needs, depending on the number of arteries that require bypassing. Here is an overview of different bypass surgery procedures available in Kochi with their costs:

Disclaimer: The prices mentioned above are not precise. It may vary for different types of bypass surgery and from one hospital in Kochi to another.

Why Does Bypass Surgery Cost Vary for Different Patients in Kochi?

Bypass surgery costs can differ significantly for patients in Kochi due to various factors unique to each individual. Understanding these variations is crucial for patients to make informed decisions about their treatment options and manage their healthcare expenses effectively. The various factors affecting bypass surgery costs are explained below:

1. Hospital Choice

   Where a patient gets treatment in Kochi will determine the general cost of bypass surgery. Topping the list are private hospitals with the best modern facilities that charge more than public hospitals. For instance, sophisticated cardiac care centres in Kochi will charge more for equipment and full-time patient services during a bypass surgery. Contrary to this, a government hospital will charge less but offer essential services only.

2. Qualifications and Experience of Surgeon

   The surgeon's qualifications and experience are critical in determining the cost of the bypass surgery. The fees of a specialist cardiac surgeon with more experience will be much more than that of somebody with lesser expertise. Thus, a famous cardiac surgeon in Kochi can demand hefty amounts for his services, considering their earlier records of handling complicated cases successfully.

3. Surgery Complexity

   The complexity of bypass surgery also determines its overall cost. The cost is higher for patients requiring multiple grafts than for those with a single blockage. For instance, a patient who requires a quadruple bypass will pay more than someone who needs only one bypass. Besides, longer operating and recovery times tend to be associated with more complex surgeries, which increases the cost.

4. Type of Graft Used

   The type of graft used also contributes to the cost of bypass surgery. Compared with the gastroepiploic artery graft harvested from the stomach, the graft of the leg saphenous vein is relatively inexpensive. However, the surgical team may prefer arterial grafts as they may last much longer despite being costlier.

5. Technology Used

   The technology used in bypass surgery also impacts its cost. For instance, robotic-assisted procedures are costlier than minimally invasive surgeries. Although it has a higher upfront cost, robotic surgeries can be much more accurate and reduce recovery time. Therefore, many patients opt for robotic-assisted surgeries even if their prices are higher.

6. Hospital Stay

   The number of days in the hospital is the major cost component in bypass surgery. Patients who do not have complications from the surgery are discharged within a couple of days from the hospital, resulting in lower costs. However, if patients suffer from infections, blood clots, etc., after surgery, the hospital stay may drag on for weeks. As a result, the hospital bill may be steep.

7. Type of Hospital Room

   Another factor that makes bypass surgery costly is the room selected for the hospital stay. Private rooms are more spacious than shared or general wards and thus are more expensive. Many patients prefer private rooms, especially when their family members are staying with them during recovery, which increases the total bill amount.

8. Other Services and Tests

   Pre-operative testing, post-operative care, and rehab sessions may increase the cost of bypass surgery. For instance, a patient may need multiple cardiac images or rehabilitation needs. These may add up to the price of the bypass surgery, even though proper care after the surgery is crucial for a full recovery.

Does Health Insurance Cover Bypass Surgery in Kochi?

Yes, bypass surgery in Kochi is typically covered by most health insurance plans, but the extent of coverage can vary depending on the specific policy. Standard medical insurance plans usually include the cost of hospitalisation, surgery, and necessary pre & post-hospitalisation care. However, comprehensive plans may also pay for modern treatments like robotic surgeries, ambulance charges, and the cost of consumables. Patients must review their plans carefully to know the exact coverage.

Patients can also opt for heart insurance policies that offer comprehensive coverage for various cardiovascular conditions. They cover everything from the initial diagnosis to bypass surgery and subsequent rehabilitation, providing extensive patient support. In contrast, critical illness insurance plans provide a lump sum payment upon diagnosis of a listed critical condition. While this can help manage medical expenses and rehabilitation costs, it can also serve as a replacement for income during the surgery and its recovery period.

Moreover, mediclaim insurance policies typically have waiting periods that must be served before coverage become available. Standard health plans have a waiting period of 30 days, while critical illness insurance plans come with a 90-day waiting period. Besides, for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, the waiting period can extend up to 3 years, which may delay coverage for such conditions until the waiting period has elapsed.