Bypass Surgery Cost in Kolkata

What is Bypass Surgery?

Bypass surgery, or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), is a surgery that aims to improve blood flow to the heart by bypassing narrowed or blocked coronary arteries or blood vessels. The procedure involves harvesting a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body and using it to create a new pathway for blood flow. This procedure is crucial for patients with severe blockages, particularly in major arteries like the left main coronary artery.

The surgery involves making a chest incision, temporarily stopping the heart, and using a heart-lung machine to maintain blood circulation. Surgeons attach grafts to the coronary arteries to bypass blocked sections, with complexity varying based on the number of bypasses needed and the patient's health.

What is the Cost of Bypass Surgery in Kolkata?

Bypass surgery costs in Kolkata can vary based on several factors, including the chosen hospital and the type of procedure. Take a look at the bypass surgery cost in Kolkata:

• Minimum Bypass Surgery Cost in Kolkata: ₹2,20,000 to ₹3,60,000
• Maximum Bypass Surgery Cost in Kolkata: ₹5,00,000 to ₹6,00,000

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

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

The total cost of bypass surgery includes multiple components, such as surgeon fees, pre-operative tests, post-operative care, etc. Below is the cost breakdown of bypass surgery in Kolkata that can help patients better prepare financially:

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

What are the Types of Bypass Surgery in Kolkata?

Kolkata offers various types of bypass surgeries depending on the patient's condition. From traditional open-heart procedures to more advanced minimally invasive techniques, each has its unique benefits. The various types of bypass surgery procedures and their costs are given below:

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

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

The cost of bypass surgery in Kolkata is considerably influenced by several factors mentioned below:

1. Hospital Selection

   Bypass surgery cost depends on the type of hospital. Tertiary care cardiac centres with better equipment and training facilities are more costly than government hospitals. For example, the charges of undergoing bypass surgery at a heart institute in Kolkata will be higher than those of a public hospital. This is because private hospitals justify their higher prices with modern technology and round-the-clock cardiac care.

2. Surgeon's Expertise

   The surgeon's experience and expertise play a crucial role in the total cost of bypass surgery. Experienced cardiac surgeons with many years of practice command a higher price. A prominent cardiac surgeon of Kolkata who has performed numerous successful operations will charge more than a junior surgeon. Though the surgery expenses increase, most patients prefer to go under the knife of an experienced surgeon to ensure a smooth operation and minimise risks.

3. Nature of Surgery

   The complexity of bypass surgery is one of the significant factors that affect the surgery costs. For example, patients with multiple graft bypasses will have higher surgery costs than those with simple cases. This happens because such procedures are longer and involve much more work, increasing the overall cost in total.

4. Grafts Used

   The bypass surgery cost may also be determined by the type of graft used. For example, the saphenous vein graft may be more affordable than the internal mammary artery graft from the chest, as it is more technically demanding and sensitive to handling. While the choice of arterial grafts depends on the patient, surgeons decide based on long-term durability.

5. Use of Technology

   The technology used during the bypass surgery also affects its cost. For example, robotic bypass surgery will cost more as it has better precision that will shorten the patient’s recovery. Patients who opt for advanced technology with the expectation of a quick recovery and shorter days in the hospital will pay more as hospitals charge more for maintaining these costly machines.

6. Hospital Stay Duration

   The duration of stay in hospitals also adds to the total expenses of the bypass surgery. Patients with better recovery and healing can return home in a few days, thus requiring a shorter stay in the hospital and paying a smaller bill. On the contrary, those who experience complications, like blood clots or infections, require more attention for extended periods, elongating their hospital stay and paying a bigger hospital bill.

7. Type of Room

   Hospital room selection will also contribute to the final cost of bypass surgery. Patients who opt for private or luxury rooms will pay a much higher fee than those in general wards or shared rooms. While a private room is more comforting and accommodating, especially with a family member staying with their loved one, it can result in a higher bill.

8. Other Services and Tests

   All tests conducted before admission, care after admission, and all rehabilitation services add to the final bill of bypass surgery. These tests are necessary to determine the surgery's complexity and procedure. For example, a patient who needs whole-body cardiac imaging or an extended period of rehabilitation will have to pay more for the bypass surgery.

Does Health Insurance Cover Bypass Surgery in Kolkata?

Yes, bypass surgery in Kolkata is covered under all health insurance plans. Standard health insurance policies generally cover hospitalisation expenses, including room rent, surgeon fees, device charges, diagnostic tests, etc. It also pays for pre-surgery costs, ambulance charges, and post-surgery expenses, including medication and rehabilitation treatment. The exact coverage depends on the policy chosen by the patient.

Heart-specific policies cover a much more comprehensive range of cardiovascular diseases. They ensure full support right from the time of diagnosis through the bypass surgery and rehabilitation phases. On the other hand, a critical illness insurance policy offers a lump sum payment after a severe illness is diagnosed. The payout can help manage medical and rehab costs along with other ancillary expenses.

However, waiting periods have to be served before health insurance policies can be claimed to receive benefits. For standard plans, a waiting period of 30 days is applicable, while for critical illness policies, it may take up to 90 days before a claim can be raised. Moreover, those who have pre-existing conditions, like previously diagnosed heart issues, may be required to wait up to 3 years to get their treatment costs covered.