Heart Surgery Cost in Kochi

What is Heart Surgery?

Heart surgery involves various surgical techniques performed to correct various heart and blood vessel problems. These surgeries aim to improve heart function and reduce symptoms. Some of the most common cardiac procedures include coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for blocked arteries, valve surgery to fix or replace faulty heart valves, and heart transplants for advanced heart disease.

Modern heart surgery leverages cutting-edge technology to solve serious cardiovascular issues effectively. As a result, cardiologists now use minimally invasive techniques instead of only open-heart surgeries to treat various heart-related conditions.

What is the Cost of Heart Surgery in Kochi?

The total cost of heart surgery often depends on diagnostic tests, the surgery itself, and care after the procedure. These costs can vary based on the patient's condition and the treatment required. Here is an overview of open heart surgery costs in Kochi:

• Minimum Heart Surgery Cost in Kochi: ₹1,57,446 to ₹19,00,000
• Maximum Heart Surgery Cost in Kochi: ₹3,32,388 to ₹23,00,000

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

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

The heart surgery cost in Kochi not only includes the fee paid for the operation, but also the cost of several components. Below is a breakdown of the total cost of heart surgery in Kochi:

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

What are the Types of Heart Surgery in Kochi?

In Kochi, various types of heart surgery are available to address different cardiovascular issues. Each type targets specific heart conditions, such as blocked arteries, damaged valves, or severe heart failure. Below are the types of heart surgeries offered and their costs in Kochi:

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

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

Heart surgery in Kochi can be an expensive affair, and the cost varies greatly from one patient to another. Here is an in-depth look at why heart surgery can be expensive to some patients and relatively affordable for others in Kochi:

1. Type of Hospital

   The type of hospital where the heart surgery procedure is undertaken majorly impacts the price. Kochi's private hospitals will generally have costlier rates than government hospitals due to specialised care and other additional comforts. Expensive treatments with highly advanced equipment and premium services tend to increase costs.

2. Procedure Complexity

   The complexity of the heart surgery is another significant cost determinant. Open-heart surgeries, such as CABG or multi-vessel coronary bypass, are technically more demanding and take more time, thereby increasing the surgery cost. On the other hand, angioplasty or minimally invasive valve repairs are less challenging and less costly. The surgery technique is determined by the surgeon depending on the condition of the patient.

3. Type of Heart Surgery

   The costs of heart surgery vary depending on its type. A heart transplant will cost more than a stent placement or valve replacement. This is because when different surgeries are performed, the devices used and the expertise that should be employed are different. Knowing the type of heart surgery required can help estimate the surgery expenses to prepare for it adequately.

4. Hospitalisation Duration

   Another factor that affects the total cost of heart surgery is the length of hospital stay. Extended stays in the ICU or general wards increase the total cost because they increase the cost of care and accommodation. Furthermore, a patient's recovery period plays a vital role in increasing the total price, especially for patients requiring additional support during their stay in the hospital. The longer a patient stays at the hospital, the higher will be their surgery bill.

5. Pre-Existing Illness

   Patients with complex pre-existing conditions, like diabetes, hypertension, etc., will incur higher heart surgery costs due to their medical needs. This is because these patients require specialised care and a longer recovery time. Requirements for exceptional care due to their comorbid conditions lead to an increase in the complexity of the surgical process and post-operative care, thereby surging the bill.

6. Surgeon's Experience and Reputation

   The charges of cardiac surgeons vary based on their experience and reputation. Surgeries performed by experienced and renowned surgeons might be costly due to their professional skills and good outcomes. An experienced surgeon will bring better outcomes, but also increase the cost for the patient. Therefore, patients must weigh their decisions between experience and costs.

7. Medical Equipment and Technology

   Another determinant of the cost of heart surgery is the selection of medical equipment and technology to be used in the operating room. The use of costlier technology, such as advanced, high-end pacemakers, specific grafts, and even specific dyes, increases the surgery cost. The surgeon determines the kind of technology and materials used, which eventually influence the cost.

8. Type of Hospital Room

   The cost of heart surgery will also be tied to the type of hospital room used. Private rooms are usually expensive compared to shared rooms because they have air conditioners and extra beds for family members to stay close. Immunocompromised patients use isolation rooms, which may incur more costs. Hence, it is essential to choose an appropriate hospital room that balances comfort with the budget.

9. Pre-Surgical Diagnostic Tests

   Diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies, blood work, and stress tests, add to heart surgery costs. Depending on the general health status of the patient and the surgical plan, patients may require a combination of these tests before undergoing the surgery. This eventually increases the cost of the cardiac surgery.

10. Post-operative Follow-Up Care and Rehabilitation

    Health check-ups, medical tests, and medications post-surgery add to its cost. Moreover, some patients require rehabilitation services, such as physiotherapy, to recover fully. Proper planning for all these additional post-operative expenses will go a long way to ensure a smooth transition and an all-round recovery process.

Does Health Insurance Cover Heart Surgery in Kochi?

Yes, comprehensive health insurance in Kochi provides coverage for various expenditures incurred on heart surgery. This includes expenses related to hospitalisation, operating room, fees to be paid to the surgeon, ambulance charges, etc. These policies also include preliminary and subsequent surgery tests, thus fully covering all pre & post-hospitalisation expenditures. To know about the exact coverage of the policy, patients must review the policy details carefully.

If you need treatment like a heart bypass or transplant, special heart care and critical illness plans can help with the cost. Critical illness insurance gives you a one-time payment if you are diagnosed with a serious heart condition. On the other hand, heart insurance plans cover hospitalisation expenses resulting from a heart ailment along with additional coverage, like home care treatment, daily hospital cash and second opinions.

Health insurance policies generally have waiting periods for when the coverages come into effect. Standard mediclaim policies will usually have a 30-day waiting period, while critical illness plans may have up to a 90-day waiting period. Moreover, coverage of pre-existing diseases, such as heart disease diagnosed before taking the policy, will have a waiting period of up to 3 years.