Blalock Taussig (BT) Shunt Surgery cost In India
The cost of Blalock-Taussig (BT) Shunt Surgery in India ranges from $5,200 to $6,500 (about ₹4,30,000 to ₹5,45,000), making it much more affordable than in Western countries, where the cost is often two to three times higher. Despite the lower prices, India offers advanced hospitals, highly skilled pediatric cardiac surgeons, and excellent post-surgery care, making it a trusted choice for families worldwide.
Cost Range of Blalock Taussig (BT) Shunt Surgery cost In India
BT shunt surgery is a palliative heart procedure performed mainly in infants with congenital heart defects such as Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). In this surgery, doctors create a connection between the subclavian artery and the pulmonary artery to increase blood flow to the lungs. This helps improve oxygen levels in the body and reduces symptoms like bluish skin color (cyanosis).
The surgery is performed in specialized cardiac centers equipped with pediatric intensive care units. After surgery, babies are closely monitored, and most recover well with improved oxygen circulation. India is preferred for this treatment due to its affordable cost, high success rates, and comprehensive follow-up care, ensuring safe outcomes for infants with complex heart conditions.
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Who is a candidate for BT Shunt Surgery in India?
BT Shunt surgery is often a temporary measure until the patient is ready for more definitive surgery.
Congenital Heart Defects
Infants born with cyanotic congenital heart defects, such as Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), Tricuspid Atresia, or Pulmonary Atresia, are prime candidates for BT shunt surgery. These conditions limit blood flow to the lungs, leading to oxygen deficiency, and require early intervention.
Newborns and Infants
This surgery is commonly performed on newborns or infants who are not yet suitable candidates for complete corrective surgery. BT shunt serves as a bridge, helping to stabilize the child until they grow and can undergo more complex heart surgery, such as a full repair of the defect.
Children with Unfavorable Anatomy
Some children with congenital heart defects have complex anatomy that makes immediate corrective surgery risky. In such cases, a BT shunt may be performed to provide time for growth and development before attempting more invasive procedures.
Preoperative Stabilization
Patients who are too fragile for major surgery due to severe symptoms or other medical conditions may first undergo BT shunt surgery to stabilize their condition. It helps improve oxygenation, which can enhance their overall health and prepare them for future corrective surgery.
BT shunt surgery is typically performed in specialized pediatric cardiac centers. Candidates include infants with cyanotic heart defects, those who require stabilization before corrective surgery, and children with complex anatomy.
Types of BT Shunt Surgery Cost in India
Here is an overview of the common types of BT shunt surgery along with their approximate cost range in USD:
Types of BT Shunt Surgery in India | Cost Range in USD |
| Classic Blalock-Taussig Shunt This involves directly connecting the subclavian artery to the pulmonary artery without using any prosthetic material. | 5200 to 6000 |
| Modified Blalock-Taussig Shunt A Gore-Tex tube graft is used to create a connection between the subclavian artery and the pulmonary artery, which allows for more controlled blood flow. | 5500 to 6500 |
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City wise Cost Comparison for BT Shunt Surgery in India
City | Cost in USD |
New Delhi / NCR | 5200 to 6200 |
Mumbai | 5800 to 6800 |
Bangalore | 6000 to 7000 |
Chennai | 5500 to 6200 |
BT Shunt Surgery Cost in India Inclusions
Surgeon fee, OT charges, anesthesia
Pre-operative outpatient consultations
Routine drugs and consumables required during hospitalization
Pre-anesthesia check up and clearance
Hospital stay and meals as per the package
BT Shunt Surgery Cost in India Exclusions
Hotel stay, meals and flights
Extended hospital stay
Post-operative follow-ups and medical management
Treatment for any other underlying medical conditions
Other Factors Affecting BT Shunt Surgery Cost in India
Choice of location, doctor and hospital
Pre-existing medical history
Type of surgery
Overall patient status and condition at the time of procedure
Diagnostic Tests Before BT Shunt Surgery
Types of Tests For BT Shunt Surgery in India | Cost Range in USD |
Blood Tests: These include the basic blood investigations for the patient to check organ functioning and infection status. | 30 to 50 |
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): A quick, painless test that checks your heart's electrical activity, showing how it beats. | 50 to 70 |
Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to create images of the heart's structure and assess its function. | 50 to 90 |
| Chest X-rayProvides a visual of heart size and any lung congestion or abnormalities caused by congenital defect. | 30 to 50 |
Why is India preferred as one of the best countries for congenital heart disorders surgery?
India is a preferred destination for congenital heart disorder surgeries due to its world-class medical expertise, advanced technology, and cost-effective care. Indian cardiac centers, such as Fortis, Gleneagles Global, and Apollo Hospitals, are known for performing complex pediatric heart surgeries with high success rates. The cost of heart surgery in India is significantly lower than in Western countries, often just one-tenth of the price.
According to a 2023 report, India performs over 25,000 pediatric cardiac surgeries annually, with a growing number of international patients from countries like Iraq, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Kenya. Indian hospitals are also recognized for their expertise in handling high-risk cases, including neonatal heart surgeries, with success rates of over 95%.The availability of government-backed initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and international patient services makes India attractive for medical travelers. Additionally, India offers minimal waiting times, which is crucial for life-saving pediatric surgerie
Cost Comparison for BT Shunt Surgery in India with Other Countries
Country | Cost in USD |
India | 5200 to 5200 |
Turkey | 13000 to 22000 |
UAE | NA |
USA | 180,000 to 250,000 |
Best Hospitals for BT Shunt Surgery in India
FAQs
BT Shunt Surgery is a heart operation used in babies and children with congenital heart defects like Tetralogy of Fallot or other conditions that reduce blood flow to the lungs. In this surgery, doctors create a small tube (shunt) between an artery and the lung artery to improve oxygen levels in the blood.
It is mainly done for babies born with cyanotic heart diseases (blue baby syndrome) where the lungs don’t get enough blood supply. It helps the child grow until a complete heart repair surgery can be done later.
The BT Shunt Surgery usually takes about 3–5 hours. The child may need to stay in the ICU for a few days after surgery for monitoring.
Families should plan to stay around 3–4 weeks in India:
- Hospital stay: 10–14 days.
- Recovery and follow-up: 1–2 weeks.
The surgery has a success rate of over 85–90% in leading Indian hospitals. Outcomes depend on the child’s age, weight, and overall health condition.
For major heart surgery, risks may include bleeding, infection, or shunt blockage. However, with expert surgeons and advanced ICUs in India, these risks are carefully managed.
Yes. The BT Shunt is usually a temporary solution. As the child grows, a definitive heart repair surgery (like open-heart surgery) will be needed later.