Pacemaker surgery is a life-saving cardiac procedure. It helps to regulate abnormal heart rhythms. It is a common treatment all over the world. The cost of pacemaker surgery in India can vary significantly. In India, you can access high-quality medical surgery at an affordable cost compared to Western countries. If you are an international medical tourist or a domestic patient, here you will get all the information. In this blog, we’ll go through the cost of pacemaker surgery in India, types, factors, and side effects of the Pacemaker surgery.
What is a Pacemaker in Heart Surgery?
A pacemaker is a small electronic device. It regulates the irregular fluctuation of the heart rhythms (arrhythmias). This device is typically implanted under the skin near the collarbone with wires (leads). Those wires are inserted into the veins of the heart, which generate the electrical impulse to revive the heart’s rhythms and muscles. It helps them to contract and maintain a stable heartbeat.
This minor surgery takes approximately 1 to 2 hours. This is used to treat several types of conditions, like heart block, bradycardia (slow heart rate). CABG (coronary artery bypass graft), where the electrical system of the heart may be disrupted. This pacemaker device maintains the heart rhythm. It avoids fainting, dizziness, or fatigue due to a slow or irregular heart rate.
A pacemaker can help regulate your heartbeat after procedures like heart stent surgery, heart failure, Atrial fibrillation (in some cases), or the Fontan operation. These surgeries can be done by a heart specialist, like a cardiothoracic or cardiopathic surgeon.
Cost of Pacemaker Surgery in India
The cost of a pacemaker surgery in India varies according to the city and the pacemaker device. It depends on the type and your insurance. If you are planning a heart bypass or open heart surgery, ask your doctor if a pacemaker might be needed for better recovery and heart rhythm control. Here is the estimated cost of pacemaker surgery in India:
| City | Min Cost (₹) | Max Cost (₹) |
| New Delhi | 240,000 | 440,000 |
| Gurgaon | 245,000 | 440,000 |
| Noida | 230,000 | 340,000 |
| Chandigarh | 200,000 | 450,000 |
| Jaipur | 250,000 | 400,000 |
| Mumbai | 250,000 | 450,000 |
| Chennai | 260,000 | 475,000 |
Note: These numbers are only estimates, not the exact numbers of pacemaker surgery, costs may differ by the hospital & location.
What are the Types of Pacemaker Surgery?
The pacemaker device depends on your heart condition according to your needs. Each type of pacemaker has different uses, complexity, and cost. Here’s a simple explanation of the three main types.
Single-Chamber Pacemaker
A single-chamber pacemaker has one lead (wire) connected to the atrium (upper chamber) or the ventricle (lower chamber) of the heart. It is used for Bradycardia or certain types of heart blocks. It is a simpler version, because this is the cheapest of all pacemakers. This pacemaker controls the rhythm of one part of the heart, and it is also best for those who need support only for their right ventricle.
Dual-Chamber Pacemaker
This has two leads(wires) which connect to the atrium (upper chamber) or the ventricle (lower chamber) of the heart. It coordinates the timing between the top and bottom of the heart. It is best for patients who need more natural heart rhythm control, notably among AV block and sick sinus syndrome. Compared to the single-chamber device, it is expensive. It sends signals to both chambers to keep them working together properly.
Biventricular Pacemaker (CRT Device)
This is the most advanced type of pacemaker. This is a cardiac resynchronization therapy device. The leads are connected to three sites in the heart, one for the right atrium, the right ventricle, and the left ventricle (through a special vein). The therapy allows the heart ventricles to contract together, resulting in increased blood flow. This device is used for heart failure or a weakened heart muscle. The highest cost is due to the advanced technology and the presence of multiple leads. It resynchronizes the pumping heart.
Key Factors of Cost of Pacemaker Surgery in India
Here are several factors that may affect the cost of pacemaker surgery, you need to know:
Types of Pacemaker
The type of pacemaker plays an important role in increasing the overall cost of the device. A high-end pacemaker, like a dual chamber or an MRI-compatible one with advanced features or functions, is more expensive. These devices may also require a more complex surgical procedure, further increasing the cost.
Hospital Charges
These charges depend on the hospital and location. Factors like the goodwill of the hospital, location (metro cities usually cost more), infrastructure quality, and facilities can enhance the cost of pacemaker surgery in India. Room category (general ward, private, deluxe) all are different and have various prices, equipment, and service fees. Top-tier and multi-specialty hospitals charge more because they offer advanced facilities.
Fees of Surgeon
Surgeon of cardiology surgeons charge more because they have experience, reputation, and they are expertise. The cardiac surgeons are also a big factor in increasing the surgery cost. A highly experienced or specialist person may charge a higher fee due to their skill level and successful record.
Medical Complications
If there are some unexpected complications during and after the surgery, like infection, bleeding, or organ dysfunction can increase the total cost. Besides, such things are also a reason that additional treatments, equipment, hospital stays, or intensive care may be required.
Pre-Surgery Evaluations
Before the surgery, some things required to know the conditon of the heart of the patient. Several diagnostic tests such as ECG, blood test, imaging, and consultation, which are significant for the surgery.
Post-Surgery Care
After the pacemaker is implanted, the patient will need follow-up visits, medications, and periodic device checks. These post-surgical needs are also a reason to increase the cost of pacemaker surgery in India.
What are the Side Effects of Pacemakers?
There is a little bit of risk associated with pacemaker surgery, discuss it with your doctor to know in depth. Below are the risks:
- There is a small risk of infection at the surgical site or around the lead.
- An allergic reaction may occur as a result of the heavy medication you have taken.
- Some risks include bleeding, blood clot, or hematoma after or during the pacemaker surgery.
- The leads may cause damage to the nearby organ.
- Improper work of the device and leads displacement can occur.
- Unwanted problem with heart rhythm in rare instances.
Conclusion
Pacemaker surgery is a crucial procedure, but important for life saving, it control the abnormal heart rythm. The cost of pacemaker surgery in india is affordable than other many countries. The cost of pacemaker surgery depends on many factors such as the type of pacemaker, hospital, surgeon’s fees, and post-surgery care. There are some risks we have explained in the above article.