TAVR Surgery Cost in Delhi-NCR

Heart diseases are one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, with aortic stenosis being a significant contributor. When the aortic valve becomes narrowed, it restricts blood flow, leading to severe health complications. Traditionally, open-heart surgery was the primary treatment for this condition. 

Nevertheless, recent advancements in medical technology have brought forth transcatheter aortic valve replacement surgery (TAVR, also known as TAVI) as a minimally invasive procedure. This article discusses TAVR surgery costs in India against the advantages of traditional surgery and explores the reasons for opting for this procedure.

What is TAVR?

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive heart procedure used to replace a narrowed aortic valve that fails to open properly. This condition, known as aortic stenosis, can severely impact blood flow and lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated. 

Unlike open-heart surgery, which requires a large chest incision and longer recovery times, TAVR is performed through small incisions, usually in the leg, allowing for much quicker recovery, fewer complications, and lower surgical risks. 

The procedure involves inserting a collapsible replacement valve via a catheter, which is then expanded within the diseased valve, restoring normal blood flow. TAVR is particularly beneficial for patients who are at high risk for conventional surgery due to age, frailty, or underlying health conditions.

Types of TAVR Procedures

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Procedures come in a few varieties based on the access point used to reach the heart. The major types include:

• Transfemoral Approach – The most common approach in which the valve is inserted from the femoral artery in the leg. This technique is entirely percutaneous and requires no open surgery. 
• Transapical Approach – Involves a small incision in the chest through which the valve is delivered via the heart’s apex. This is typically used when the femoral arteries are not suitable.
• Transaortic Approach – Access is gained through an incision in the upper chest and the aorta, usually in patients with severe peripheral artery disease.
• Subclavian Approach – The valve is inserted through the subclavian artery near the collarbone and is used when other routes are not viable.

When to go for a TAVR? Understanding Aortic Stenosis

TAVR is primarily required for patients suffering from severe aortic stenosis, a condition that restricts blood flow due to a narrowed aortic valve. Without intervention, aortic stenosis can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, and even sudden cardiac arrest. Key reasons why TAVR is needed include:

• Patients experiencing severe symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or fainting.
• Those who are considered high-risk for traditional open-heart surgery due to age, pre-existing conditions, or frailty.
• Patients with a history of previous heart surgeries make open-heart surgery more complicated.
• Individuals seeking a faster recovery and less hospital stay compared to traditional valve replacement methods.

Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis

Patients with aortic stenosis often experience:

• Chest pain or tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Dizziness or fainting
• Palpitations or irregular heartbeats

Causes and Risk Factors

TAVR is primarily used to treat aortic stenosis, which is a narrowing of the aortic valve that obstructs blood flow. Major risk factors include:

• Ageing: This condition becomes more common in persons over 65
• High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure increases the risk of valve calcification
• Diabetes: Complicates the condition of the vascular system
• Smoking: In the long run, it damages heart valves 
• Chronic Kidney Disease: Vascular and heart valve linking issues

How does a TAVR Procedure Happen?

There are three stages of TAVR procedure:

Pre-Surgical Preparation:

Patients will undergo echocardiograms, CT scans, and angiograms to assess their heart function and the possible approaches for performing the TAVR procedure in the weeks before the operation.

It is in their hands to see that the medications are readjusted with elaborated directives of fasting and hospital admission. A dedicated medical care team will prepare the patient with mild sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on individual health.

Procedure:

TAVR will be performed using a catheter, a thin, flexible tube, to implant the new valve. The catheter is inserted through the femoral artery (transfemoral approach) or a small incision in the chest (transapical or transaortic approach). 

With real-time imaging guidance, the replacement valve is carefully positioned inside the diseased valve and expanded using either a balloon or self-expanding mechanism. The new valve immediately begins functioning, regulating blood flow without removing the old valve. The entire procedure takes approximately 1–2 hours.

Post-Surgery Recovery:

Most patients are monitored in a cardiac intensive care unit (ICU) for the first 24–48 hours after TAVR. Early mobility is encouraged to reduce complications, and patients usually begin walking within a day. Most individuals experience immediate symptom relief, including improved breathing and increased energy levels. 

Depending on overall health, patients are discharged within 2–5 days, significantly shorter than traditional open-heart surgery recovery. Full recovery takes a few weeks, with patients resuming normal activities within 7–14 days. Follow-ups and changes in lifestyles, such as diet and cardiac rehabilitation, are very important for long-term heart health.

TAVR vs. Traditional AVR Surgery

There are many advantages of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) over traditional Aortic Valve Replacement surgery, which makes it a better choice for many patients. The most common benefits available are:

• Minimal Intervention: It does not involve opening the chest, in contrast to open-heart surgery. As a consequence, there is less pain and faster recovery.
• Hospitalisation: As opposed to conventional AVR surgery, TAVR results in a shorter stay in hospital, usually only 2-5 days. 
• Lower Risk for High-Risk Patients: Patients with other health complications, such as kidney disease, lung problems, or frailty, are safer undergoing TAVR rather than open-heart surgery.
• Quicker Return to Normal Life: TAVR allows patients to recover and return to daily activities much faster than conventional surgery.
• Reduced Complications: Since the procedure does not require opening the chest, it reduces the risk of infections, excessive bleeding, and other complications.

What is the Cost of TAVR in Delhi-NCR?

The TAVR procedure cost in India varies depending on the hospital, surgeon’s expertise, and patient’s condition. In Delhi NCR, the price typically ranges between INR 18–30 lakhs, including hospital stay, pre-procedure tests, and post-operative care. Comparatively, this is lower than the cost of aortic valve replacement cost in Western countries, making India a preferred destination for medical tourism.

TAVR vs. Other Heart Surgeries Cost in Delhi-NCR

TAVR is often compared to bypass surgery costs and open-heart surgery costs in Delhi. The cost of open-heart surgery is between INR 3-7 lakhs; however, due to its advantages of being minimally invasive, advanced technology, and shorter recovery times, TAVR incurs a greater cost.

Cost Comparison:

• TAVR: INR 18-30 lakhs
• Bypass Surgery: INR 3-7 lakhs in Delhi 
• Heart Surgery Cost in Delhi (including different procedures): INR 3–30 lakhs

Factors Affecting TAVR Cost

Several factors influence the TAVR surgery cost in India:

• Hospital Reputation & Infrastructure: Premium hospitals charge higher
• Surgeon’s Expertise: Experienced specialists may demand higher fees
• Type of Valve Used: Imported valves increase costs
• Pre-and Post-Operative Care: Extra medicines and stays in the ICU have an additive effect on the final bill.
• Complications and Extended Hospitalization: If complications arise, expenses increase.

TAVR is a heart valve replacement technique that is completely minimally invasive in the present era. While the TAVR procedure cost in India is high, it offers significant benefits, including quicker recovery, lower risk, and improved quality of life. If you or a loved one is considering TAVR, consult a trusted cardiac specialist to explore your options.

Atrius Cardiac Care For A Healthy Heart 

Atrius Cardiac Care offers world-class expertise in transcatheter aortic valve replacement costs in India at competitive prices. Book a consultation today to receive personalised cardiac care from experienced specialists!