What is Heart Transplant?
A heart transplant is a surgical procedure that is characterized by the replacement of a diseased or failing heart with a healthy heart. The individual with end-stage heart failure or severe heart conditions that cannot be effectively treated with any other medical interventions undergoes a heart transplant. Patients of end-stage heart failure, which cannot be treated by any other medical interventions, undergo heart transplants.
If you are looking for knowledge about heart transplant costs in Kolkata, then look no further. We have made an overview of it just keep reading.
How Much Does a Heart Transplant Cost in Kolkata?
There are two different types of heart transplant surgical procedures 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. This procedure costs around INR 7,00,000 to INR 13,00,000
- Heterotopic approach to heart transplant: It includes the connection of the donor’s heart with the right side of the patient’s chest when the recipient’s heart is at its place. This procedure costs nearly INR 8,00,000 to INR 15,00,000.
What Factors Affect The Heart Transplant Cost in Kolkata?
Heart transplant cost in Kolkata is affected by numerous factors, which are described below:
- Hospital Fees: Every hospital has different charges as they charge a code to the facilities provided by them.
- Surgeon’s Charges: These include the fees of the surgeon.
- Pre-Transplant Examinations: These include the cost of diagnosis tests, which are done before the transplant.
- After-Surgery Care: It includes the rehabilitation program and follow-up appointment costs.
- Immunosuppressant Drugs: These are the drugs prescribed by the doctor for quick recovery after the transplant.
These factors decide the final cost of a health transplant.
What Are the Diagnostic Tests Recommended by the Doctor Before Heart Transplant?
Before proceeding to a heart transplant, examining the functioning of the heart should be considered. 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 costs nearly INR 1800.
- Cardiac catheterization: This diagnostic test is performed to get detailed information about the heart's 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 physical activities. It costs around INR 2000.
Is the cost of a heart transplant covered by insurance?
Yes, the cost of a heart transplant is covered by the insurance company. Here is an overview of the coverage of heart transplant costs by insurance.
- Prior Approval
- In-Network Providers
- Coverage Limits
- Copayments and Deductibles
- Pre-existing Conditions
It’s important to consult with your insurance provider to understand the specific details of what is covered under your plan, including any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Do’s and Don'ts After Heart Transplantation
Some of the measures after the heart transplant should be taken to take care of cardiovascular health. Do’s and Don'ts after heart transplant include.
- Attend all follow-up appointments with your transplant team.
- Maintain a heart-healthy diet low in sodium and fat.
- Practice good hygiene to prevent infections.
- Don’t smoke or use any tobacco products.
- Avoid consuming alcohol in excess.
- Don’t engage in strenuous physical activities without approval from your doctor.
- Don’t ignore any unusual symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling.