Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome HLHS Repair cost in India
The Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) Repair cost in India ranges between $10,000 to $18,000 which is equivalent to 9,00,000 to 16,24,720 Indian Rupees. This is far more affordable compared to Western countries, where the same treatment may cost over $150,000 to $250,000.
Cost Range of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome HLHS Repair cost in India
What is Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) Repair?
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) is a rare but serious birth defect where the left side of the baby’s heart is underdeveloped and cannot pump blood properly to the body. Without treatment, it is life-threatening.
HLHS repair is not a single operation, but a series of three heart surgeries performed in stages during early childhood to help the right side of the heart take over the job of pumping blood to the whole body. These stages are:
Norwood Procedure – done in the first few weeks of life to create a new pathway for blood to reach the body.
Glenn Procedure – performed at 4–6 months of age to reduce the strain on the heart.
Fontan Procedure – done at 18 months to 3 years of age to improve long-term blood circulation.
These surgeries together allow the child’s heart to function better, even though it cannot be made completely normal. With proper repair and follow-up, many children with HLHS can live active lives.
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Stages of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) Repair with Approximate Costs in India (USD):
Stage of HLHS Repair | When It Is Done | Description | Approx. Cost in India (USD) |
Norwood Procedure | Within the first few weeks of life | The first and most complex surgery. Creates a new pathway so blood can flow to the body since the left heart is too small. | $12,000 to $18,000 |
Glenn Procedure | At 4 to 6 months of age | Connects the large vein from the upper body (superior vena cava) directly to the lungs, reducing the heart’s workload. | $6,000 to $10,000 |
Fontan Procedure | At 18 months to 3 years of age | Completes the repair by connecting the lower body’s vein (inferior vena cava) to the lungs, so all blood flows to the lungs without passing through the weak left heart. | $7,000 to $12,000 |
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HLHS Repair Treatment Cost Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions | Exclusions |
First consultation | Pre-operative examination and tests |
Treatment as advised | Hotel stay, meals, flights and extended hospital stay |
Routine drugs and consumables required during hospitalization | Post-treatment follow-ups |
Pre-anesthesia check-up and clearance | Treatment for any other underlying medical conditions |
Hospital stay and meals as per the package | Any complex investigations or drugs |
Other Factors (HLHS) Repair Treatment Cost
- Type of surgery advised
- Choice of location, doctor, and hospital
- Pre-existing medical history
- Type and duration of treatment advised
Diagnostic Tests for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) in India
Diagnostic Test | Description | Approx. Cost in India (USD) |
Echocardiogram (Echo) | Ultrasound of the heart that shows how the chambers and valves are working. The main test to confirm HLHS. | $80 to $120 |
Fetal Echocardiogram (during pregnancy) | Specialized ultrasound done before birth (from 18 weeks onward) to detect HLHS in the baby. | $100 to $150 |
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) | Records the electrical activity of the heart to check rhythm and strain. | $15 to $30 |
Chest X-ray | Shows the size and shape of the heart and lungs. | $20 to $40 |
Cardiac MRI / CT Scan | Detailed imaging to check heart anatomy, blood vessels, and blood flow patterns. | $150 to $300 |
Cardiac Catheterization | A thin tube is inserted into the blood vessels to measure pressures, oxygen levels, and blood flow in the heart. | $500 to $1,000 |
Blood Tests | General health check-up before surgery (CBC, clotting profile, kidney & liver function). | $30 to $60 |
Why India is Preferred for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) Surgery?
India is preferred because it has highly skilled pediatric cardiac surgeons and cardiologists, many trained internationally, who specialize in complex congenital heart surgeries like HLHS repair. Leading hospitals such as Apollo, Fortis, Artemis, and Max are equipped with advanced pediatric cardiac ICUs, ECMO (heart-lung machine) support, and modern imaging facilities, ensuring world-class care for newborns and infants.
Another advantage is the comprehensive care packages. The cost usually includes consultations, diagnostic tests, surgeon and anesthesia fees, operation theater charges, ICU stay, medicines, and post-surgery follow-up, making it cost-effective for families.
Parents also benefit from short waiting times, meaning surgery can be performed quickly—critical for newborns who need urgent care.
For international families, India offers strong medical tourism support with medical visa assistance, airport transfers, affordable accommodation, translators, and dedicated child-care coordinators.
Best Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) Repair Surgery Hospitals in India
Best Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) Repair Surgeon in India
FAQs
With experienced pediatric cardiac teams and modern ICUs, the success rate is 70–85%, depending on the child’s overall health and timing of surgery.
For the Norwood procedure, babies usually stay in the hospital for 3–4 weeks. Glenn and Fontan surgeries may require 1–2 weeks each.
Yes. HLHS can often be detected during pregnancy using a fetal echocardiogram (from 18–20 weeks onward).
Children with HLHS need lifelong medical care, but many grow up to attend school, play, and live active lives. Some may need medicines or additional interventions later
Yes. Risks include bleeding, infection, rhythm problems, or heart failure. However, these are minimized in specialized pediatric cardiac centers.
No. Medicines can help manage symptoms (like improving oxygen levels or controlling fluid), but surgery is essential for long-term survival.
No. Medicines can help manage symptoms (like improving oxygen levels or controlling fluid), but surgery is essential for long-term survival.
Heart transplants can be an option, but donor hearts for infants are very limited worldwide. Multi-stage HLHS surgery is the most common and practical treatment.
Yes. Children with HLHS need regular follow-ups, medicines, physiotherapy, and sometimes oxygen or feeding support in the early m
Hospitals in India provide medical visa help, language translators, affordable accommodation, airport transfers, and dedicated care managers. HOSPIDIO guide families through every step.