Several new minimally invasive and robot-assisted cardiac procedures have been introduced recently. The advancement in medical technology and infrastructure is now slowly replacing the traditional approach to doing cardiac surgeries. There are, in fact, many procedures that can be performed by both approaches – open heart and minimally invasive.
What is Open Heart Surgery?
The heart is accessed through a breastbone incision during open-heart surgery. Surgeons cut through the sternum (breastbone) and spread the ribs to gain access to the heart. “Chest cracking” is another term for this. Smaller, less invasive incisions, like those between the ribs on the right side of the chest, can be used to perform many different types of heart surgery.
Open-heart surgery is a reliable way for surgeonsto perform heart surgery for various heart conditions like heart attack, atrial fibrillation, heart valve disease, and many others. Open-heart surgery is also called ‘Traditional Heart Surgery’. Today, many cutting-edge heart procedures can be carried out without any huge holes and with only minor cuts or incisions. Therefore, the term “open-heart surgery” is potentially deceptive. CABG (bypass surgery), heart transplantation, and valve replacement are all examples of open-heart surgery. Open-heart surgery can also be used to treat heart failure, congenital cardiac abnormalities, and coronary artery disease.
If you are suffering with cardiac disease and the cardiac specialist suggests you undergo the surgery immediately- Do not delay it anymore! Open heart surgery can repair abnormalities (Septal defects, Heart Valve complications, Stroke, Failure, etc.). During the procedure, the surgeon may use appropriate material (implant, valve, etc.) to restore the normal functioning of the heart.
For Which Conditions is Open Heart Surgery Needed?
Several cardiac diagnoses warrant the need for open-heart surgery. If you have one of the following heart conditions, open-heart surgery may be necessary:
- Congenital cardiac conditions like hypoplastic left heart syndrome and atrial septal defect (heart hole) (underdeveloped heart structures).
- Coronary artery disease.
- Heart failure.
- Heart valve disease.
- Thoracic aortic aneurysm.
Patients with coronary heart disease may need a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) (double vessel or triple vessel disease). When the coronary arteries that supply the heart muscle with blood and oxygen narrow and harden, coronary heart disease develops. Hardening occurs due to the formation of plaque on the inside walls of the coronary arteries. The narrowing of the arteries makes it difficult for blood to flow. This increases the risk of a heart attack.
Depending on the size, location, and number of blockages in the heart vessels, the surgeon may decide to do open-heart surgery or minimally invasive bypass, whichever seems feasible and safe for the patient as per the clinical status.
The following conditions may also necessitate open-heart surgery:
- The heart’s blood-flowing valves require maintenance or replacement.
- To restore any portions of the heart that have been injured or are aberrant.
- To implant medical gadgets that support the proper heartbeat operation
- Heart transplantation, often known as replacing a damaged heart with a donor’s heart,
Techniques used in Open Heart Surgeries
There are two techniques used to do open heart surgery: the traditional technique, also referred to as on-pump heart surgery, and the more recent technique, known as off-pump heart surgery. The opinion is still divided on which is the better way. Despite the availability of a range of innovative access alternatives, the midline sternotomy route is still used for the majority of open-heart procedures (down the middle through the breast bone). Major techniques used to perform open-heart surgeries are-
On-pump surgery or CPB– It is a time-honored procedure that is carried out on a non-beating heart.Blood flow to the rest of the body must be kept going even if the heart stops.Therefore, surgeons use a cardiopulmonary bypass machine (also called a heart-lung bypass machine or a pump), which is an artificial circulation system that supports the heart and lungs. This machine takes over the function of the non-beating heart, which is to circulate blood to the rest of the body, while the surgeons are performing the surgery.
Off-pump surgery or Beating-heart surgery– This approach involves operating on a beating heart. To keep the heart steady throughout the procedure, advanced & special technology is used. This procedure is carried out while the patient’s heart is beating and circulating blood to the rest of the body. Therefore, there is no need for a heart-lung machine. This type of operation is challenging since the heart is still beating and not all surgeons have the expertise in it.
Tests Performed Before Surgery
Your doctor might recommend various tests before a heart bypass or other types of heart surgery. To make the surgery safer, experiments are being carried out. Some of the common tests required before surgery are-
Echocardiogram or Echo: Your cardiac muscle strength and the function of your heart valves are checked using an echocardiogram.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): The electrical signal from the heart is recorded with an ECG or EKG to screen for various cardiac diseases. Your heart rhythm and rate are monitored.
Lab testing: Check your kidney function, liver function, blood count, urine, thyroid function, and blood type in case a transfusion is needed during your surgery.
Chest X-Ray: A chest x-ray produces images of the heart, lungs, airways, blood vessels, and the bones of the spine and chest.
Dobutamine stress echocardiogram (DSE): Dobutamine is put in a vein and causes the heart to beat faster. It mimics the effects of exercise on the heart.
Treadmill Test or TMT: Also known as a cardiac stress test, this procedure identifies the maximum heart rate at which an abnormal rhythm or a decrease in blood supply to the heart muscle is not likely to occur.
Complete blood count (CBC): is a blood test used to evaluate your overall health and detect a wide range of disorders, including anemia, infection, and leukemia.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging or MRI: It is a technique that generates precise pictures of the internal structures of the heart using radio waves, a strong magnetic field, and a computer. This examination provides a thorough view of your heart.
Angiography- It is an X-ray technique used to examine blood arteries. This highlights your blood vessels so your doctor can see if there are any problems. Angiograms are the X-ray images produced during angiography.
How is Open Heart Surgery Performed?
The cardiac surgeon will assess your overall health before beginning your open-heart surgery. The operation may require you to stay in the hospital for 7-10 days.
>>Preparing for your open heart surgery
You can prepare yourself for the surgery by following the given steps:
- Check on your medications:You should share your medical history with your surgeon. Certain medicines should be avoided before your surgery. These include blood thinners, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and medicines for strokes. Your cardiac surgeon may tell you to stop taking these medicines 1-2 weeks before your surgery.
- Diet:It is vital that you take care of your health before the surgery. Since anesthesia is safer with an empty stomach, your cardiac surgeon may recommend you avoid food or drinks before the surgery.
- Alcohol and smoking: You should also abstain from smoking and drinking before the surgery. These habits can delay your recovery after the surgery.
- Do your research:You must communicate with your cardiac surgeon and understand the surgical procedure, its benefits, and risks in detail. This will help you be well-informed and mentally prepared for your procedure.
>>Performing open heart surgery
Once you are ready for your open heart surgery, your cardiac surgeon will perform the procedure in the following manner:
- The procedure is carried out under general anesthesia.
- The cardiac surgeon makes an incision of about 6-8 inches in the center of the chest.
- They will access your heart by cutting the breastbone and spreading the ribcage.
- If you are having an on-pump surgery, then a heart-lung bypass machine will be connected to your heart. This equipment will temporarily take over lung and heart functions.
- Your healthcare team will constantly monitor your vitals during the surgery.
- After completing the open heart surgery, your cardiac surgeon will restart your heart and restore blood flow. Your heart begins to beat on its own and the bypass machine is removed.
- The incisions are sutured.
>>After the Surgery
You will stay in the ICU for a day or more. After some time, you can be moved to a normal hospital room. You may also experience the following symptoms after your operation:
- Pain or swelling in the region where the cut was made
- Memory issues
- Depression
- Pain in chest muscles
You should also consult your doctor for follow-up sessions if required.
Why Choose India for Open Heart Surgery?
India sees a lot of cardiac patients every day, with a high success and recovery rate. Cardiac Care in India is exceptional in that it accepts patients from other countries. In terms of health infrastructure, India competes with developed countries similarly. Medical facilities in India are well-equipped with the most up-to-date medical technologies, as well as unrivaled expertise from leading cardiologists and heart surgeons.Indian cardiac surgeonsare noted for providing a wide range of cardiac treatments, ranging from basic services to Open Heart Surgery at a reasonable price.
Services offered to International Patients in India
- Simple booking process with easy access to the best medical care in India.
- Obtaining a medical visa is a simple process.
- Quick and effective service—immediate care without waiting lists
- Full patient support service- 24/7 services.
- Specialist consultations- scans, clinical investigations & consultations at short notice.
- Medical executives with fluent English
- Provide professional treatment and surgery of the finest quality possible.
- Ensure the right guesthouse for the travelers
- Handhold the patients through the treatment process at the hospital (in person and/or by phone- as and when required)
- Provide interpretation services if the patient or attendant is unable to communicate in English
- Response time is quick and is always available
- Multipletreatmentoptions available
- Visible compassion for the traveler
- Holistic Hand Holding
Popular Open-Heart Surgeries and Their Costs
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
The most common type ofheart surgery is a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), in which the blocked coronary artery is replaced with a healthy artery or vein from another section of your body to allow blood to flow normally again. By avoiding the obstructed area of the coronary artery, the grafted artery or vein establishes a new route for blood to travel to the heart muscle.CABG is also known as heart bypass surgery or coronary artery bypass surgery.
Cost of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) in India
| Cities Name | CABG Cost in USD |
|---|---|
| Delhi | $4500 – $7000 |
| Mumbai | $5000 – $7200 |
| Kolkata | $2700 – $5500 |
| Hyderabad | $4700 – $6000 |
| Bangalore | $5300 – $7000 |
| Chennai | $4500 – $6500 |
| Pune | $5000 – $6000 |
Enquire Now
Heart Valve Repair or Replacement
With an artificial or biological valve made from pig, cow, or human heart tissue, surgeons can either repair or replace the cardiac valve. Even in these cases, a catheter is inserted into a significant blood vessel, and guided to the heart, and a tiny balloon is inflated and deflated at the catheter’s tip to widen a tight valve.
Cost of Heart Valve Repair or Replacement in India
| City Name | Heart Valve Repair or Replacement Cost in USD |
|---|---|
| Delhi | $6500 – $9000 |
| Mumbai | $7000 – $9800 |
| Kolkata | $6200 – $7700 |
| Hyderabad | $5800 – $8500 |
| Bangalore | $7500 – $9000 |
| Chennai | $7200 – $8600 |
Enquire Now
Insertion of a Pacemaker or an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)
The disorder known as arrhythmia is characterized by abnormally fast, sluggish, or irregular heartbeats. Medicine is usually the initial therapeutic option. A surgeon may implant a pacemaker under the skin of the chest or abdomen, with wires connecting it to the heart chambers if medicine fails. When a sensor identifies an aberrant heart rhythm, the device utilizes electrical pulses to control it. When an ICD detects a worrisome arrhythmia, it delivers an electric shock to restore the normal rhythm.
Cost of ICD in India
| City Name | ICD Cost in USD |
|---|---|
| Delhi | $10000 – $12500 |
| Mumbai | $10560 – $12900 |
| Kolkata | $800 – $10500 |
| Hyderabad | $9600 – $11900 |
| Bangalore | $1000 – $13000 |
| Chennai | $9880 – $12450 |
Enquire Now
Heart Transplant
A sick or failing heart is swapped out with a healthier donor heart during a heart transplant.A heart transplant is normally reserved for patients whose condition has not improved enough with medications or other surgeries.Even though a heart transplant is a significant and difficult procedure, your chances of survival are good with the right aftercare.
Cost of Heart Transplant in India
| City Name | ICD Cost in USD |
|---|---|
| Delhi | $35000 – $45000 |
| Mumbai | $60000 – $80000 |
| Kolkata | $48500 – $55000 |
| Hyderabad | $57000 – $69000 |
| Bangalore | $60000 – $73000 |
| Chennai | $60000 – $70000 |
Enquire Now
Insertion of a ventricular assist device (VAD)/LVAD
A VAD is a mechanical pump that supports heart function and blood flow. A TAH replaces the two lower chambers of the heart.Your chest is implanted with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). It helps pump blood from the lower left heart chamber (left ventricle) to the rest of your body.A small aperture (port) in your skin connects a control unit and battery pack, which are carried externally, to the LVAD.
Cost of LVAD in India
| City Name | LVAD Cost in USD |
|---|---|
| Delhi | $54000 – $70000 |
| Mumbai | $60000 – $75000 |
| Kolkata | $53000 – $62000 |
| Hyderabad | $58000 – $65000 |
| Bangalore | $60500 – $74000 |
| Chennai | $60000 – $74000 |
Enquire Now
What are the Factors Affecting Open Heart Surgery Costs in India
The following factors determine the cost of Open Heart Surgery in India-
- Kind of hospital Government- Private or Trust
- Type of city- the expense of doing business in a metropolis is higher.
- What kind of technology or strategy is being used?
- The type of surgery, as well as the surgeon’s experience and qualifications
- If you’re paying out of pocket or utilizing your health insurance,
- The nature of the patient’s condition and the scope of the surgery necessary
- The patient’s overall fitness and general health, as well as the medical institute’s reputation
Best Hospitals for Open Heart Surgery in India
1. Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, New Delhi
Fortis Hospital is a multispecialty facility that offers a range of modern treatments for patients. It is situated in the vibrant city of Delhi, India, and has set benchmarks for delivering quality medical services to its patients. Fortis Hospital has 262 beds and around 35 specialties including neurosurgery and cardiology. A NABH and NABL-accredited hospital, its medical staff consists of highly trained and skilled doctors and nurses. It uses advanced technologies to address patients’ concerns like a 3D laparoscopic system, flat panel CATH lab, ERCP, and EUS. Fortis Hospital has an International patient team that helps overseas patients with visa, airport transfer, and translation services. The cardiac sciences team at Fortis is capable of performing catheterizations, angioplasty, and stenting.
2. Sri Ramachandra Medical Center, Chennai
Sri Ramachandra Medical Center has emerged as a leading medical facility in the southern part of India. Though started as a teaching facility, It has evolved into a center for high-quality patient care. Equipped with 800 beds and a blood bank unit, it has the best surgeons, nurses, and physicians on the payroll. Since its inception, Sri Ramachandra Medical Center has been on a quest to attain the highest possible quality of healthcare delivery. It has received several accreditations like NABH, JCI, AABB, and NABL. Sri Ramachandra Medical Center’s cardiac care team is dedicated to improving the management and treatment of various cardiac conditions. It can cater to the heart problems of adults, children, and senior citizens. The cardiac care center has an emergency area, a non-invasive area, and invasive laboratory services.
3. Pushpawati Singhania Research Institute(PSRI), New Delhi
The Pushpawati Singhania research institute in New Delhi is a world-renowned hospital that offers state-of-the-art medical facilities and treatments. The hospital has expertise in multiple specialties and consists of a well-trained medical team. PSRI believes in using a wholesome approach to addressing various diseases. Having received various accreditations like the NABH and NABL, the hospital offers highly-specialized treatments by expert doctors. Its cardiac sciences department is a leading center for treating various heart conditions like heart failure, rheumatic heart disease, angina, and cerebrovascular disease. PSRI also offers a range of services for its International patients like visa, travel, and accommodation assistance.
4. Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi
Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality is a leading hospital in New Delhi. It is a NABH and NABL-certified facility with around 230 beds. The hospital has an
excellent team of doctors that are highly trained and proficient in managing various illnesses. Aakash Healthcare aims to deliver optimum care for diseases that require well-rounded expertise and proficiency. The cardiology and cardiac surgery department at Aakash Hospital is equipped with the requisite technologies for solving patients’ heart problems. These include diagnostic tests like ECG, EEG, Holter monitoring, carotid ultrasound, and stress test. Aakash Hospital also offers minimally invasive cardiac surgery, coronary artery bypass grafting, and LVAD implantation.
5. Aster Medcity, Kochi
Spread over a sprawling 40-acre campus, Aster Medcity has a world-class medical staff that consists of exceptional and talented healthcare providers. The center offers advanced and latest treatments and diagnostics. These include an automated pharmacy robot, 256-slice Philips ICT, CT scanner, and robotic surgeries for delivering the highest accuracy. Aster Medcity uses a holistic approach to quality treatment and is the first JCI-certified hospital in its state.
The cardiac care center offers a range of services including a heart rhythm clinic, interventional cardiac procedures, and implantation of cardiac devices.
Consult with the Best Open Heart Surgeons in India
1. Dr. Sanjay Gupta
Designation: Director, Cardiothoracic Vascular Surgery, Fortis Flt. Lt. Rajan Dhall Hospital, Vasant Kunj
Experience: 33 years
2. Dr. Yugal Kishore Mishra
Designation: Head of Cardiac Sciences and Chief cardiovascular surgeon, Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, Delhi
Experience: 40 years
3. Dr. Dinesh Kumar Mittal
Designation: Director, Cardiothoracic Vascular Surgery, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, New Delhi, India
Experience: 20 years
4. Dr. Suman Bhandari
Designation: Consultant, Cardiac Sciences, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Okhla
Experience: 31 years
5. Dr. Gaurav Mahajan
Designation: Consultant, Cardiac Sciences, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Okhla
Experience: 31 years
Avail the Pre-Bundled Packages for Open Heart Surgery in India
Open heart surgery is a major surgical operation used to correct heart diseases like coronary artery disease and congenital heart defects. It could also be performed for heart transplantation. Due to the high effectiveness and low cost of open heart surgery in India, the country has become an attractive destination for many patients.
Traveling abroad for open heart surgery can seem challenging. However, Patients can avail of carefully crafted packages to make the process easy for them. These packages come with various features without any hidden costs. Some of the features of an open heart surgery package in India are:
- Open heart surgery process:The package is inclusive of costs of consultation of the surgeon, hospital room (specific period), anesthesia, tests associated with surgery, routine medications, and food for the patient and 1 companion while staying in the hospital.
- Accommodation:The package also includes the cost of hotel and hospital stay for the patient and 1 companion. A complimentary stay for the patient will also be provided.
- Airport transfer:After landing in India, the patient will be received by an attendant who will assist the patient in reaching the hotel and hospital.
Package for CABG
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery
- Medicana Camlica Hospital, Turkey
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery
- 03 Jun, 2024
Benefits
- Complimentary Stay for the Patient in a Hotel for 10 Nights
- Free Room Upgrade from Economy to Private
- MORE
Hospital Price 10000
Our Price
9900
BOOK @ 10% |Pay USD 990
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery
- Sarvodaya Hospital and Research Centre, India
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery
- 05 Jun, 2024
Benefits
- Complimentary Stay for 2 in a Hotel for 10 Nights
- Free Room Upgrade from Economy to Private
- MORE
Hospital Price 5000
Our Price
4990
BOOK @ 10% |Pay USD 499
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery
- Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, India
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery
- 30 Jul, 2024
Benefits
- Complimentary Stay for 2 in a Hotel for 12 Nights
- Free Room Upgrade from Economy to Private
- MORE
Hospital Price 5500
Our Price
5486
BOOK @ 10% |Pay USD 548.6
Package for Heart Valve Repair or Replacement
Double Valve Replacement Surgery
- Medicana Camlica Hospital, Turkey
- Double Valve Replacement Surgery
- 16 Jun, 2024
Benefits
- Complimentary Stay for the Patient in a Hotel for 11 Nights
- Free Room Upgrade from Economy to Private
- MORE
Hospital Price 15000
Our Price
14900
BOOK @ 10% |Pay USD 1490
Double Valve Replacement Surgery
- Sharda Hospital, India
- Double Valve Replacement Surgery
- 30 Jul, 2024
Benefits
- City Tour for 2
- Airport Transfers
- MORE
Hospital Price 8500
Our Price
8486
BOOK @ 10% |Pay USD 848.6
Double Valve Replacement Surgery
- Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, India
- Double Valve Replacement Surgery
- 30 Jul, 2024
Benefits
- City Tour for 2
- Airport Transfers
- MORE
Hospital Price 12600
Our Price
12586
BOOK @ 10% |Pay USD 1258.6
Post-Surgery Care, Recovery & the Conclusion
Open heart surgery is a major operation that requires close monitoring and immediate post-operative support. The first few days will be spent in an intensive care unit. Once your heart rhythm and blood pressure have stabilized and you no longer require intravenous medications, you will be transferred to a regular room. After surgery, you’ll most likely spend four to six days in the hospital. Some complex procedures such as pediatric cardiac surgery for cardiac defects, Bentall surgery, Norwood procedure, etc. may require a stay of up to 15 days at the hospital.
Once it’s assessed safe, your attending specialist/team will remove the chest drainage tubes and temporary pacing wires in the days following surgery. You’ll work with cardiac rehab and potentially physical and occupational therapists to improve your strength and mobility during your stay.
How to Plan a Medical Trip to India for Open Heart Surgery?
Traveling for your treatment may seem confusing at first. But, by following a few simple steps, you can conveniently travel to India for treatment. Your medical travel journey with MediGence would entail the given steps:
- Submit your inquiry to our team
- Our medical team will thoroughly review your case and discuss the medical opinion with you
- Based on your inquiry, we will prepare a few treatment recommendations
- We can help you in choosing the best option as per your needs and preferences
- After you decide on your treatment, our team will start with your travel arrangements like visa, accommodation, and priority appointment.
- You will be assigned a case manager who will be in touch with you throughout your treatment for any assistance.
- Our care team will also provide support after treatment for faster recovery
You Should be Allowed to Return Home Once You’ve Completed the Following Activities:
- Have stable blood pressure, heart rate, and rhythm
- Can safely walk
- Have adequate pain management
- Oxygen mask is no longer required
- There are no signs of infection around the surgical site
Following surgery, your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to check your recovery and may also recommend some routine tests to keep a check on the cardiac status and condition. These tests may include blood work-up, Echo, ECG, and other tests.
We propose that you undergo cardiac rehabilitation as part of your treatment to regain your strength. This medically supervised program provides additional assistance, knowledge, and coaching to help you get back on track.
The recovery from open-heart surgery is always slow but steady. It could take up to six weeks before one begins to feel better, and it could take up to six months for the surgery to fully benefit one. The following activities can help to maintain one’s heart healthy:
- Having a well-balanced diet
- High-salt, high-fat, and high-sugar foods should be avoided.
- Changing one’s lifestyle to one that is more active
- Smoking cessation
- Managing high blood pressure and cholesterol
Recommended Reads:
Recovery
Recovery
Device Closure of ASD (Amplatzer Septal Occluder): Symptoms,
Device Closure of ASD (Amplatzer Septal Occluder): Symptoms,
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): Symptoms, Classification,
FAQs
What preparations are required before undergoing open heart surgery?
Some of the steps that you can follow before open heart surgery are:
- Inform your cardiac surgeon about the medications that you have been taking.
- Take the medications required before the procedure as recommended by your cardiologist
- Ensure you are healthy with exercise and a healthy diet
- You should avoid consuming alcohol before the surgery
- You should also abstain from smoking on the day before surgery
Who is the right candidate for Open Heart Surgery?
The cardiologist will analyze certain components of your heart health before deciding your suitability for open heart surgery:
- Severity of symptoms
- The number of blockages you have
- The seriousness of your blockages
- If other alternative procedures like angioplasty could be used
What factors influence the cost of your open heart surgery?
Several factors can affect the cost of your open heart surgery. These include:
- The country where you are getting treated
- The surgical technique or approach being used
- Whether you have insurance or not
- The overall health of the patient
- The reputation of the hospital where the surgery will be done
- Qualifications of the surgeon and his expertise
Can I use the stairs after my open heart surgery?
It is recommended that you take assistance for climbing the stairs in the initial days after your open heart surgery.
How long do I need to stay in the hospital after open heart surgery?
You may have to stay in the hospital for about 4-5 days after your open heart surgery. Once discharged, you will require nearly 8 weeks to return to your normal routine.
Can I travel by air after my open heart surgery?
It is recommended that patients travel via air after 10 days of their open heart surgery. However, each airline has its regulations. You should check with the airline before planning your travel.
Reference Link:
