Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) Surgery cost in India
The cost of Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) surgery in India typically ranges from $5,000 to $12,000, which is approximately ₹4,25,000 to ₹10,50,000 INR. The overall cost depends on the hospital, the child’s condition, and the duration of post-surgery rehabilitation.
This cost generally includes the neurosurgery, hospital stay, surgeon’s fees, and initial physiotherapy sessions. Compared to countries like the USA or UK, India provides a more affordable solution with international-standard care, skilled pediatric neurosurgeons, and advanced rehabilitation support—making it a trusted choice for families worldwide.
Cost Range of Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) Surgery cost in India
What is selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) or cerebral palsy surgery?
Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) is a specialised surgical procedure used to reduce muscle stiffness (spasticity) in children with cerebral palsy, especially those who have trouble walking due to tight leg muscles. During the surgery, a small portion of the lower spinal cord is exposed, and carefully selected sensory nerve fibers are cut. These nerves are responsible for sending abnormal signals to the muscles, causing tightness. By cutting only the overactive nerves, SDR helps relax the muscles, improve movement, and make physical therapy more effective. It’s a safe and proven option for children with spastic diplegia who meet certain criteria.
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Common Conditions That May Require Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) Surgery
1. Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy
The most common condition treated with SDR. It mainly affects the legs, causing tight muscles and difficulty walking. Children often walk on their toes or need walkers or braces.
2. Spastic Hemiplegia (in selected cases)
In rare cases, SDR may be considered if one side of the body has significant leg spasticity affecting mobility, and the child is otherwise a good candidate.
3. Toe-Walking with Muscle Spasticity
Children who walk on their toes due to tight calf muscles caused by spasticity (not structural deformity) may benefit from SDR when physical therapy alone is not effective.
4. Muscle Tightness Limiting Progress in Therapy
Children whose muscle stiffness prevents progress in walking, balance, or mobility despite regular physiotherapy may be evaluated for SDR to improve outcomes.
5. Increased Risk of Future Deformity
In children with severe leg stiffness, SDR may be performed to prevent future issues like joint contractures, hip dislocation, or spinal curvature related to muscle imbalance.
Who Is an Eligible Candidate for Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) Surgery in India?
1. Medical Eligibility Criteria
a) Confirmed Diagnosis of Spastic Cerebral Palsy
SDR is most effective for children diagnosed with spastic diplegia, a type of cerebral palsy that mainly affects leg muscles and causes stiffness or tightness during walking.
b) Type and Severity of Spasticity
Best suited for children who have muscle tightness without significant weakness. Ideal candidates are those with mild to moderate spasticity affecting both legs and who can already walk with or without support.
c) Age Criteria
Typically recommended for children between 3 and 12 years old, though older children may be considered depending on overall health and mobility goals.
2. Additional Considerations
Overall Health
The child should be in good general health to undergo surgery and participate in intensive post-operative physiotherapy.
Cognitive Function
Children should have normal or near-normal intelligence to fully benefit from post-surgery rehab and instructions.
Parental Commitment
Families must be willing to follow a structured physiotherapy program for 6–12 months after surgery to ensure long-term success.
Types of Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) Surgery
Here is an overview of the selective dorsal rhizotomy treatment with their approximate cost range in USD:
| Type of SDR Surgery | Description | Approximate Cost (USD) |
| Traditional (Open) SDR | A small opening is made in the lower back (lumbar spine) to access the spinal cord. The surgeon tests and cuts specific overactive sensory nerve roots to reduce spasticity. This method is widely used and highly effective. | 5000 - 9000 |
| Minimally Invasive SDR | A less invasive approach using a smaller incision and specialised tools. May reduce recovery time, but not all hospitals offer this technique. | 6500 - 9500 |
| Single-Level Laminectomy SDR | Only one vertebra (usually L1) is opened to access all necessary nerve roots, instead of multiple levels. This modern method limits surgical trauma and speeds recovery. | 7000 - 9500 |
| Multi-Level Laminectomy SDR | Older approach involving multiple vertebrae. Still used in complex cases or where access is limited, though it may involve longer recovery. | 8000 - 12000 |
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Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) Surgery Cost in India Inclusions
- First consultation
- Treatment as advised
- Routine drugs and consumables required during hospitalization
- Pre-anesthesia check up and clearance
- Hospital stay and meals as per the package
Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) Surgery Cost in India Exclusions
- Pre-operative examination and tests
- Hotel stay, meals and flights
- Extended hospital stay
- Post-treatment follow-ups
- Treatment for any other underlying medical conditions
- Any complex investigations or drugs
Other Factors Affecting Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) Surgery Cost in India
- Type of surgery advised
- Choice of location, doctor and hospital
- Pre-existing medical history
- Type and duration of treatment advised
Types of Tests Required Before Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy
| Category | Brief Description | Common Tests and Cost in USD |
| Neurological Evaluation | To confirm the type and severity of cerebral palsy and assess spasticity patterns. | Pediatric neurologist examination, spasticity grading, reflex testing. It costs about 30 USD. |
| Gait and Mobility Assessment | To evaluate how the child walks and how spasticity affects movement. | Video gait analysis, observational gait scale, mobility scoring tests. It costs about 50 to 80 USD. |
| MRI of the Brain and Spine | To rule out any other brain or spinal cord abnormalities that might affect surgery. | Brain MRI, Lumbosacral spine MRI. It costs about 300 to 500 USD. |
| Physical Therapy Evaluation | To determine baseline muscle strength, flexibility, and therapy goals post-SDR. | Range of motion testing, tone assessment, therapy responsiveness. It costs about 30 USD. |
| Pre-Anesthesia Checkup | To ensure the child is fit for general anesthesia during surgery. | ECG, chest X-ray (if needed), blood tests, general health checkup. It costs about 100 USD. |
Why is India Preferred as One of the Best Countries for Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) Surgery?
India is widely preferred for Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) surgery because of its combination of high surgical expertise, modern infrastructure, and affordable pricing. Pediatric neurosurgeons in India are trained in leading SDR techniques like single-level and minimally invasive approaches, delivering excellent outcomes for children with spastic cerebral palsy.
The cost of SDR in India ranges from $5,000 to $12,000, which is far lower than in countries like the USA or UK, where the same procedure can cost $25,000 to $50,000+. Despite this cost advantage, Indian hospitals maintain international safety standards, provide advanced neuro-monitoring, and ensure access to specialized post-surgical rehabilitation programs.
Top hospitals such as Apollo, Fortis, Max Healthcare, and Artemis offer SDR services along with support for international patients, including medical visa assistance, interpreters, and accommodation coordination—making the treatment journey smooth for families.
