A craniotomy is a complex surgical procedure that is done to access the brain to treat medical conditions. As it involves the most complex organ, i.e., the brain, it must be performed by the best and most experienced medical specialists.
One of the crucial aspects that patients and their families consider is the cost of the procedure. The quality of hospital services, the doctor's experience, and even the facilities are also the concerns of the patients and their families.
In this blog, we will explore the craniotomy cost in India, the factors influencing it, and the quality of care available.
What is Craniotomy?
A craniotomy is a type of neurosurgery in which the brain is accessed by removing a portion of the cranium or skull. This complex and delicate surgery is performed for various medical reasons, from treating brain tumors to relieving intracranial pressure.
According to the type and location used in surgery, craniotomies are of many types:
Stereotactic Craniotomy: In this procedure, surgeons use imaging tests such as MRI scans or CT scans to create three-dimensional images of your brain. This helps to find the best spot for a scalp incision and make smaller cuts to perform minimally invasive procedures.
Endoscopic Craniotomy: This technique involves inserting an endoscope, a small lighted device with a camera, to perform the surgery.
Awake Craniotomy: This surgery is performed in the awake conditions of patients. The surgeon asks questions while performing the surgery to monitor brain activity.
Keyhole Craniotomy: This is done to remove brain tumors. Sometimes, it may be done with an endoscope. This procedure is minimally invasive, which results in less scarring and short recovery time.
Orbitozygomatic Craniotomy: Difficult brain tumors and aneurysm is treated with this surgical procedure. In this, the surgeon temporarily removes part of the bone that creates the curve in the orbit, eye socket, and cheek.
Why is it Necessary?
Craniotomy procedure is performed to treat various neurological conditions such as:
Brain Tumor Resection: Craniotomy is the most common procedure that is done to remove brain tumors to prevent their growth and alleviate pressure on surrounding brain tissue. A professional and experienced Neurosurgeon does it.
Traumatic Brain Injury: Brain injury may be caused by an accident or any trauma. This will lead to blood clotting or may damage brain tissue. In these cases of severe head trauma, a craniotomy is necessary to remove blood clots or damaged brain tissue.
Aneurysm Repair: Aneurysm is also called intracranial aneurysms or cerebral aneurysms, which is a ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain. It may cause life-threatening bleeding if it ruptures. Craniotomy is done to repair these vessels.
Epilepsy Treatment: Epilepsy is a disorder that involves abnormal nerve cell activity, which may cause seizures. In this case, Craniotomy may be performed to remove the part of the brain responsible for epileptic seizures.
Intracranial Pressure Relief: Brain injury or any other neurological conditions cause growing pressure inside the skull, which is life-threatening. A craniotomy is done that can help relieve the pressure and prevent brain damage.
What are the Factors that Make India the Best Place for Craniotomy?
India is renowned for its highly skilled healthcare workers and top-notch medical facilities. When it comes to craniotomy surgery, patients can expect the following:
Skilled Surgeons: India has highly skilled, experienced, and professional Neurosurgeon and Neuro-physicians who are well trained in performing complex craniotomy procedures.
Modern Equipment: Hospitals in India are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and facilities, ensuring patients receive the best care.
International Standards: Several Indian hospitals adhere to international quality standards and are accredited by organizations such as the Joint Commission International (JCI).
Cost Savings: The affordability of medical procedures, including craniotomies, does not compromise the quality of care. India offers cost-effective healthcare without compromising safety and effectiveness.
What is the Average Cost of Craniotomy in India?
Craniotomy costs in India are comparatively lower than in many other countries, including the United States and European nations. On average, the cost of a craniotomy in India ranges from ₹2,50,000 to ₹5,00,000.
However, the exact cost depends on many factors. These factors are:
Hospital Choice: The cost of Craniotomy can differ between private and public hospitals in India, with private hospitals often being more expensive due to superior facilities and services.
Location: The city or region in which the hospital is located can influence the cost. Major metropolitan areas may have higher prices than smaller towns or rural regions.
Surgeon's Fee: The surgeon's experience and reputation can affect the cost of the procedure.
Type of Craniotomy: The specific nature and complexity of the craniotomy surgery can influence the cost. For example, procedures to remove brain tumors may have a different price compared to treating traumatic brain injuries.
Inclusion of Additional Costs: The overall cost may include preoperative evaluations, postoperative care, medications, and other ancillary expenses.
Who are the Best Surgeons for Craniotomy in India?
Some of the Best Surgeon for Craniotomy in India are:
Dr. Sandeep Vaishya
Dr. Sandeep Vaishya is one of the top and most experienced Neurosurgeons in India.
He has an experience of more than 27 years and is internationally recognized for performing complex neurological surgeries.
His expertise lies in performing Intracranial Brain Tumor Surgery, Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery, Skull Base Surgery, Brain Surgery, General Surgery, Minimally Invasive Brain Surgery, etc.
He is the leading surgeon for performing brachial plexus Injuries and treating Gamma Knife Surgery.
Dr. Arun Saroha
Dr. Arun Saroha is a leading and renowned Brain and Spine Surgeon.
He has an experience of more than 19 years.
His core competencies include Brain Tumor Surgery, Brain Aneurysms, Spine Surgeries, Spine Instrumentation surgeries, etc.
He successfully performed over 8,000 brain and spine surgeries.
Dr. Rana Patir
Dr. Rana Patir is an eminent Neurosurgeon that can perform all kinds of complex brain surgeries.
He has an experience of more than 24 years and a specialization in Brain Tumor Surgeries.
His area of expertise lies in Epilepsy Surgery, Pediatric Neurosurgery, Neuromodulation (for pain management), Skull Base Surgery, Neurovascular Surgery, etc.
He successfully performed over 10,000 neurological procedures.
Dr. Joy Varghese
Dr. Joy Varghese is a leading Neurosurgeon with an experience of more than 27 years.
He was trained internally to perform successful complex neurological surgeries
His core competencies lie in performing laminectomy, epilepsy surgery, peripheral neurosurgery, etc.
Dr. Sudhir Tyagi
Dr. Sudhir Tayagi is a renowned Neurosurgeon with an experience of more than 25 years.
His areas of expertise include performing Brain mapping surgery, Carotid angioplasty, Carotid artery surgery, Carotid stenting, Cervical and lumbar disk replacement, etc.
He was best known for performing the Image Fusion technique to localize the targets in the Deep part of the brain to do stereotactic surgeries.
He successfully performed over 9000 neurological surgeries.
A craniotomy is a necessary surgical surgery, and everyone has the fundamental right to obtain high-quality medical care. India has emerged as a global medical destination, offering world-class neurosurgery at a fraction of the cost in other countries.
The craniotomy cost in India is comparatively lower than in many Western countries, and there are experienced healthcare professionals and modern medical facilities that attract international patients as well.
While affordability is a significant factor, it's crucial to choose a reputable hospital and surgeon to ensure the best possible outcome for your health.
