What is Heart Transplant?
Heart transplant is a surgical procedure which is characterized by the replacement of diseased or failing heart with the healthy heart. The individual with end stage heart failure or severe heart conditions that cannot be effectively treated with any other medical interventions undergo a heart transplant. Patients of end stage heart failure which cannot be treated by any other medical interventions undergo heart transplant.
If you are looking for the heart transplant cost in Bangalore then look no further. We have made an overview on it just keep reading.
What are The Types of Heart Transplant and Their Cost in Bangalore?
There are two different types of heart transplant surgical procedure which are described below.
Orthotopic approach to heart transplant: It is one of the most common procedures which includes replacing the heart with the donor's healthy heart. The transplant from donor body to recipient body is done within 5 to 6 hours. It is a simple procedure which includes replacement of the heart. This procedure costs around INR 7,00,000 to INR 13,00,000
Heterotopic approach to heart transplant: It includes connection of donor’s heart with the right side of the patient’s chest when recipient’s heart is at its place. It is one of the most complicated heart transplant approaches. In this process the diseased or failing heart is not removed from the patient's body. This procedure costs nearly INR 8,00,000 to INR 15,00,000.
How to Get Prepared for Heart Transplant?
Before proceeding for heart transplant, you need to keep remembering some of the simple steps which are given below.
- Consult your doctor beforehand the procedure to know everything about the procedure, its benefits, risks complications, etc.
- As per suggested by the doctor, make sure to underwent all the diagnostic tests to evaluate the condition properly and check the qualifications before the procedure.
- Spend time with your friends and family to maintain emotional balance before the procedure.
- Take proper diet and prescribed medicines on time as prescribed by the doctor.
- It is better to financially prepare before the surgery to avoid any shocks after the procedure.
- Quit smoking and alcohol. It is the time to quit forever.
- Prepare your home for a recovery period.
What are The Benefits of Heart Transplants?
Here are some of the benefits of heart transplant:
Improved heart function leads to better circulation, oxygenation, and organ perfusion.
Reduction or elimination of symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.
Restoration of cardiac output enhances overall physical stamina and endurance.
Lower risk of complications associated with advanced heart failure, such as arrhythmias and fluid retention.
Improved kidney function due to better blood flow and reduced strain on the renal system.
Enhanced nutritional absorption and metabolism as a result of improved cardiac output.
Better sleep quality and respiratory function without the burden of heart failure-related symptoms.
Reduction in the risk of heart-related complications like heart attacks and strokes.
Potential for improved immune function and overall resistance to infections.
What are The Diagnostic Tests Recommended by the Doctor Before Heart Transplant?
Before proceeding to heart transplant, examining the functioning of the heart should be considered. For which some of the tests are suggested by the doctor. Here are the diagnostic tests:
Electrocardiogram: Electrocardiogram involves the monitoring of the heart which includes the electrical impulses of the heart. It costs around INR 1000.
Echocardiogram: Echocardiogram is a method in which we use sound waves to get the visualization of the heart. It will help to recognise any abnormalities of the heart valve. It costs nearly INR 1800.
Cardiac catheterization: This Diagnostic test is performed to get detailed information about the heart blood vessels and chambers. It costs around INR 15,000 to INR 21,000.
Imaging test: Imaging tests include x-ray MRI and CT scan which will help to get the visualization of the heart. It costs around INR 1000.
Stress test: This test is also known as the treadmill test which includes the evaluation of the responses of the heart to the physical activities. It costs around INR 2000.
What Are The Risks Associated with Heart Transplant Surgery?
Generally, heart transplant surgery is considered as a safe procedure but just like other procedures, it can also produce some side effects. Here are the risks associated with heart transplant.
- Higher incidence of infections because of immunosuppression
- Post-surgery organ failure
- High risk of extensive bleeding during or after surgery
- Formation of blood clots and subsequent adverse events
- Cardiac allograft vasculopathy
- Higher risk of developing some types of cancer due to immunosuppressive drugs
- Psychological problems like depression and anxiety
- Many surgery-associated complications, such as infections and blood clots
- Very low chance of death either during or after the surgery
What is The Average Heart Transplant Cost in Bangalore?
The average heart transplant cost in Bangalore is INR 7,00,000 to INR 15,00,000. Heart transplant cost in Bangalore can be expensive. It is dependent on multiple variables and entails hospital charges, surgeon fees, pre-transplant evaluations, post-operative care, necessary medications, and follow-up appointments. Moreover, other variables that might raise costs include the patient’s general health and other postoperative complications or difficulties, as well as the duration of and reason for their hospitalization . Because of the high cost of a heart transplant, it’s critical to prioritize the quality of care and specialist help provided throughout an operation that is so intricate and critical.
Patients and their families should research financial help options, coverage from insurance, and support programs to help ease the strain.
What Factors Affect The Heart Transplant Cost in Bangalore?
Heart transplant cost in Bangalore is affected by numerous factors which are described below:
- Hospital Fees: Selecting a hospital can considerably affect the total price as top-notch institutions generally charge higher fees for their amenities and services.
- Surgeon’s Charges: The cardiac surgeon’s skill set and reputation may have an impact on the amount charged for the surgery.
- Pre-Transplant Examinations: Different diagnostic tests, consultations with multiple specialists and screening for compatibility among other things make up the costs incurred during pre-transplant evaluations.
- Procedure of Transplantation: How intricate the transplant procedure is, whether or not there are additional surgeries done alongside it, and how long it takes to carry out can all affect its overall cost.
- After-Surgery Care: The number of days spent in Intensive Care Unit (ICU), length of hospital stay, drugs used in postoperative period, and follow-up visits following transplant operation are among many other things that make aftercare expensive.
- Immunosuppressant Drugs: These types of medications should be taken throughout one’s life to prevent the rejection of an organ; however their prices differ depending on what brand name they go by, dosage strength required per day etcetera.
- Complications And Duration Of Hospital Stay: In case any complications arise either during or after surgery like infections occurring at the wound site or episodes where transplanted organ rejects the recipient’s body.
Is the Cost of a Heart Transplant covered by Insurance?
Yes, the cost of heart transplant is covered by the insurance company. Here is an overview about the coverage of heart transplant cost by insurance.
Prior Approval: Prior authorization is commonly mandated by insurance firms before a person can go on with getting a heart transplantation approved.
In-Network Providers: In order for coverage benefits to be maximized, some insurance plans require that a transplant procedure should be done at specific hospitals or healthcare providers which they prefer, also referred to as in-network.
Coverage Limits: Policies do have their limits when it comes to certain medical services like surgeries involving hearts; therefore having knowledge concerning your policy on this matter will help you know what part is catered for and which one requires payment from personal funds.
Copayments and Deductibles: Insurance covers do not always pay 100% but require individuals to share costs through copayments or deductibles.
Pre-existing Conditions: Waiting periods are common in many policies covering pre-existing conditions especially those connected with heart problems.