Aortic Valve Repair and Its Cost

1. A Comprehensive Guide to Aortic Valve Repair and Its Cost Aortic valve repair is a critical heart surgery aimed at correcting malfunctioning of the aortic valve responsible for regulating blood flow from the heart’s left ventricle into the aorta. This procedure is designed to restore proper valve function without replacing it entirely, making it an attractive option for certain patients. It’s particularly suitable for those suffering from aortic regurgitation (where blood leaks backward into the heart), congenital valve defects like bicuspid valves, and even enlarged aortic roots. Unlike valve replacement, which involves removing the native valve, aortic valve repair preserves the patient’s original valve, ensuring better long-term function and lower risks of complications like blood clot formation or the need for lifelong anticoagulation. Who Needs Aortic Valve Repair? Not all patients with valve issues are ideal candidates for repair. The decision typically depends on the condition of the valve leaflets and associated structures. However, repair is highly recommended for younger patients and those whose valve leaflets are relatively pliable and free from severe calcification.

2. Common conditions that call for aortic valve repair include: ● Aortic regurgitation ● Congenital defects like bicuspid aortic valves ● Aortic root or ascending aorta enlargement ● Valve leaflet tears or prolapse Techniques Used in Aortic Valve Repair Several surgical approaches are employed to address the dysfunctions in the valve: ● Leaflet Repair – Fixes damaged or prolapsed valve leaflets to improve coaptation. ● Aortic Annuloplasty – A band is placed around the valve annulus to reshape and reinforce it. ● Cusp Extension – A patch increases the surface area of the leaflet for better sealing. ● Aortic Root Replacement – Stabilizes the aortic root using a synthetic graft, allowing the patient’s native valve to be retained. These techniques are chosen based on thorough diagnostics, including echocardiography, MRI, and angiography, to determine the exact nature of the defect. Recovery and Long-Term Outlook Postoperative recovery from aortic valve repair typically involves a hospital stay of 5–7 days, followed by 6–12 weeks of home-based recuperation. Cardiac rehabilitation, medication adherence, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes are crucial to ensure long-term success. Periodic follow-ups with echocardiograms are essential to monitor the valve’s performance. Thanks to advancements in surgical precision and technology, the success rate of aortic valve repair in India is as high as 94–95%, especially when performed by experienced cardiac surgeons in reputed hospitals. Cost of Aortic Valve Repair in India

3. One of the most significant advantages of undergoing cardiac surgery in India is its affordability. The cost of aortic valve repair in India typically ranges between USD 6,000 to USD 12,000, significantly lower than the costs in the US, UK, or Europe. This estimate often includes pre-operative tests, the surgery itself, hospitalization, and post-operative care. Factors influencing the cost include: ● Complexity of the case ● Surgeon’s expertise ● Type of hospital (public vs. private) ● Duration of hospital stay ● Need for ICU or specialized post-op care Why Choose India and EdhaCare for Aortic Valve Repair? India has rapidly become a global hub for affordable, high-quality cardiac care, with state-of-the-art facilities and internationally trained cardiac surgeons. What makes the experience even smoother for international patients is the assistance of medical travel facilitators like EdhaCare. EdhaCare plays a crucial role in: ● Hospital and Doctor Coordination: Matching patients with top cardiac centers and experienced surgeons across cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai. ● Visa and Documentation Support: Guiding patients through the medical visa application process, including providing invitation letters and documentation support. ● Travel and Accommodation Arrangements: Helping book flights, arranging airport pickups, and providing comfortable accommodations near treatment centers. ● Translation and Interpretation: Offering language assistance to ensure patients and caregivers fully understand medical procedures and instructions. ● 24/7 Support: Providing round-the-clock assistance throughout the medical journey, from arrival in India to post-operative recovery and return travel.

4. EdhaCare’s personalized service ensures that patients not only receive world-class treatment but also experience a smooth, stress-free journey from diagnosis to recovery. Conclusion Aortic valve repair offers patients the chance to retain their native heart valve, ensuring better functionality and reduced long-term complications. For those seeking affordable and high-quality cardiac care, India stands out as a top destination. With the cost of aortic valve repair significantly lower than in many Western countries and success rates impressively high, India attracts hundreds of medical tourists every year. With experienced surgeons, advanced infrastructure, and the committed support of facilitators like EdhaCare, patients can be confident in receiving world-class care tailored to their specific needs ensuring both clinical success and personal comfort.