NeuHealth Trips

Pediatric Heart Surgery

Cost

$3,000 - $12,000

  • Procedure Type: Surgical Procedure
  • Hospitalization Days: 7-14 days
  • Procedure Duration: 3-6 hrs
  • Success Rate: 90-98%

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Heart problems in children can be frightening for parents, especially when surgery is required. Pediatric heart surgery focuses on correcting heart defects that are present at birth or develop during early childhood so that children can grow, play, and live healthy lives.

India has become one of the most trusted countries for pediatric heart surgery, offering advanced technology, highly experienced pediatric heart surgeons, and excellent success rates at affordable costs. Thousands of children from around the world undergo successful heart surgery in India every year, including complex newborn and infant procedures. The cost of pediatric heart surgery in India ranges from USD 3,000 to USD 12,000.

Leading Hospitals for Pediatric Heart Surgery

What is Pediatric Heart Surgery?

Pediatric heart surgery refers to surgical procedures performed on infants, children, and teenagers to correct heart problems.

These surgeries may be needed to:

  • Repair holes in the heart
  • Correct abnormal heart valves
  • Fix incorrect blood vessel connections
  • Improve oxygen flow in the body
  • Treat complex congenital heart defects

Some surgeries are done soon after birth, while others may be planned later depending on the child’s condition. The goal of pediatric heart surgery is to correct the heart problem early and help the child live a normal, active life.

Types of Pediatric Heart Surgeries

Pediatric heart surgery is not a single operation. There are many different types of surgeries, depending on the child’s heart condition, age, weight, and overall health. Some heart defects are simple and need minor repair, while others are complex and require advanced surgical techniques. Pediatric heart surgeons in India are trained to perform the full range of heart surgeries in newborns, infants, and children.

1. Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) Surgery

These surgeries correct heart defects that are present from birth. Congenital heart defects are the most common heart problems in children.

Common conditions treated include:

  • ASD (Atrial Septal Defect): Hole between the upper chambers of the heart
  • VSD (Ventricular Septal Defect): Hole between the lower chambers
  • PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus): Abnormal blood vessel connection
  • Tetralogy of Fallot: A complex condition causing low oxygen levels
  • Transposition of the Great Arteries: Major blood vessels are reversed

Surgery helps restore normal blood flow and oxygen levels so the child can grow normally.

2. Open Heart Surgery

Open heart surgery is performed when the heart defect is complex or located inside the heart.

Key points:

  • The chest is opened
  • The heart is temporarily stopped
  • A heart-lung machine supports circulation
  • The defect is repaired directly

This type of surgery is commonly used for large holes, valve problems, and complex congenital defects.

3. Closed Heart Surgery

Closed heart surgery is used when the heart itself does not need to be opened.

Key points:

  • The heart continues beating during surgery
  • No heart-lung machine is required
  • Used for simpler procedures such as PDA closure or vessel repairs
  • Usually involves a shorter recovery time

Not all children are suitable for closed-heart surgery; the decision depends on the defect.

4. Neonatal Heart Surgery (Newborn Heart Surgery)

Some babies are born with serious heart defects that need surgery within the first days or weeks of life.

Important features:

  • Performed on newborns weighing as little as 2-3 kg
  • Requires highly specialized neonatal cardiac ICUs
  • Uses advanced technology and monitoring
  • Available at select high-volume centers in India

Neonatal heart surgery is one of the most advanced areas of pediatric cardiac care.

5. Minimally Invasive Pediatric Heart Surgery

In selected cases, surgeons can use smaller cuts instead of opening the chest fully.

Benefits include:

  • Less pain
  • Smaller scars
  • Faster recovery
  • Shorter hospital stay

This approach is used only when the child’s condition and anatomy allow it.

6. Catheter-Based Heart Procedures (Non-Surgical)

Some heart defects can be treated without open surgery, using thin tubes (catheters) passed through blood vessels.

Common catheter procedures include:

  • Device closure of ASD or VSD
  • Balloon valvuloplasty for narrowed valves
  • PDA closure

These procedures are performed in a cardiac catheterization lab and often allow for a quicker recovery.

7. Heart Valve Repair or Replacement

Some children have damaged or abnormal heart valves.

Surgical options include:

  • Repairing the child’s own valve (preferred)
  • Replacing the valve when repair is not possible
  • Growth-friendly valve solutions for younger children

Valve surgery improves blood flow and prevents long-term heart damage.

Indian pediatric heart centers are equipped to handle all types of heart conditions with advanced technology and experienced specialists. Choosing the right procedure at the right time is crucial to giving children a healthy, active future.

Who is a Good Candidate for Pediatric Heart Surgery?

Children are carefully evaluated by pediatric cardiologists before recommending surgery.

A child may need heart surgery if:

  • The heart defect affects growth or oxygen levels
  • The child has difficulty feeding or gaining weight
  • There is breathlessness or bluish skin color
  • Medications alone are not effective
  • The condition may worsen if it is not untreated

Early treatment often leads to better long-term results. Timely surgery can prevent complications and give children the best chance for a healthy future.

Pre-Surgery Preparation & Diagnostics

Before surgery, doctors perform detailed tests to understand the heart condition and ensure safety.

Common evaluations include:

  • 2D Echocardiography
  • ECG
  • Chest X-ray
  • CT scan or cardiac MRI (if required)
  • Blood tests
  • Oxygen saturation monitoring
  • Pediatric anesthesia assessment

Parents are counseled in detail about the surgery, risks, and recovery. Thorough preparation helps doctors plan the safest and most effective surgery for each child.

What’s Included in the Package?

Pediatric heart surgery packages in India are designed to cover most essential hospital expenses.

Typically included:

  • Pediatric cardiologist and surgeon consultations
  • Surgery and operation theatre charges
  • ICU and hospital stay
  • Medications during hospitalization
  • Nursing care and monitoring
  • Discharge planning and basic follow-up

Usually not included:

  • Long-term medicines
  • Extended ICU stay
  • Additional procedures if complications arise
  • Post-discharge investigations

Clear packages help families plan treatment without financial uncertainty.

Leading Doctors for Pediatric Heart Surgery

Why Choose India for Pediatric Heart Surgery?

India is one of the world’s leading destinations for pediatric cardiac care, with several major milestones in child heart surgery.

Key Reasons Parents Choose India

  • Globally accredited hospitals (JCI & NABH) with strict safety standards
  • Dedicated Pediatric Cardiac ICUs and NICUs
  • Advanced technology such as infant heart-lung machines, ECMO life support, and 3D cardiac imaging
  • Highly experienced pediatric heart surgeons, many trained in the US and UK
  • High surgical volumes, including complex newborn and infant surgeries
  • Excellent outcomes even in high-risk cases
  • Costs up to 70% lower than Western countries
  • Minimal waiting time for surgery
  • Strong international patient departments

India combines medical expertise, advanced technology, and affordability to deliver world-class pediatric heart surgery.

Insurance, Medical Visa & Travel Support

When a child needs heart surgery abroad, families require clear guidance and reliable support for insurance, visas, and travel. Indian medical facilitators provide coordinated assistance to make the treatment journey smooth and stress-free for parents.

Insurance Support

  • Help with insurance documentation and medical reports
  • Treatment cost estimates for reimbursement purposes
  • Guidance for partial or post-treatment claims (as per policy terms)

Medical Visa Assistance

  • Medical visa invitation letters from the hospital
  • Support for parent/attendant visas
  • Assistance with visa extensions if the child needs a longer stay

Travel & Local Support

  • Airport pickup and drop off
  • Accommodation near the hospital
  • Local transportation and interpreter services
  • Coordination of appointments and follow-ups

With structured insurance guidance, fast medical visa support, and complete travel assistance, families can focus fully on their child’s treatment and recovery while all logistical needs are professionally managed.

What is the Cost of Pediatric Heart Surgery in India?

The cost depends on the type and complexity of the heart condition. The cost of pediatric heart surgery in India ranges from USD 3,000 to USD 12,000.

Costs of Common Pediatric Heart Procedures

  • ASD (Atrial Septal Defect) Repair: USD 3,000 - USD 5,000
  • VSD (Ventricular Septal Defect) Repair: USD 3,500 - USD 6,000
  • PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus) Closure: USD 3,000 - USD 5,000
  • Tetralogy of Fallot Repair: USD 6,000 - USD 9,000
  • Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA) Surgery: USD 8,000 - USD 12,000
  • Open Heart Surgery (General): USD 6,000 - USD 10,000
  • Closed Heart Surgery: USD 4,000 - USD 7,000
  • Neonatal Heart Surgery: USD 9,000 - USD 12,000+
  • Minimally Invasive or Catheter-Based Procedures: USD 3,000 - USD 7,000
  • Heart Valve Repair or Replacement (Pediatric): USD 7,000 - USD 12,000

India offers high-quality pediatric heart surgery at highly affordable prices.

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What Influences the Cost of Pediatric Heart Surgery in India?

Several medical factors affect the final cost.

Key factors include:

  • Type and severity of heart defect
  • Child’s age and weight
  • Length of ICU and hospital stay
  • Use of advanced support like ECMO
  • Hospital and surgeon expertise

Each child receives a personalized treatment plan and cost estimate.

India vs. Other Countries: Cost Comparison

India is one of the most affordable destinations for pediatric heart surgery without compromising safety or expertise. 

CountryApproximate Cost (USD)
India3,000 - 12,000
USA50,000 - 150,000
UK40,000 - 90,000
UAE25,000 - 50,000
Singapore30,000 - 60,000
Turkey15,000 - 25,000

India offers the best balance of quality, experience, and affordability for pediatric heart surgery.

Procedure, Hospital Stay & Rehabilitation Timeline

Pediatric heart surgery follows a carefully planned treatment journey.

Before Surgery

  • Final tests and preparation
  • Parent counseling

During Surgery

  • Surgery under general anesthesia
  • Duration depends on heart condition

Hospital Stay

  • ICU stay: 2-5 days
  • Total hospital stay: 7-14 days

Close monitoring ensures safe recovery during the hospital stay.

Recovery Timeline and Aftercare

Recovery depends on the child’s condition and the type of surgery.

Recovery Timeline

  • First 1-2 weeks: Rest and monitoring
  • Weeks 3-4: Gradual increase in activity
  • 1-2 months: Return to normal activities

Aftercare Includes

  • Follow-up cardiology visits
  • Medicines as prescribed
  • Nutrition and growth monitoring
  • Infection prevention
  • Long-term heart checkups

With proper aftercare, most children grow up healthy and active after surgery.

Reach out to us today for a free consultation and customized treatment plan.

Our services are FREE and by using our services your hospital bill does not increase!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is pediatric heart surgery safe in India?

Yes, pediatric heart surgery in India is very safe when done at specialized children’s heart hospitals. These centers follow international safety standards and have high success rates.

At what age can a child undergo heart surgery?

Heart surgery can be done at any age, including in newborns. The timing depends on the type and severity of the heart defect.

How long will my child need to stay in the hospital?

Most children stay in the hospital for 7 to 14 days, including ICU care. The duration may vary based on recovery and surgery type.

Will my child be able to live a normal life after surgery?

In most cases, yes. After successful surgery and proper follow-up, children can grow, play, and attend school like other children.

Is open-heart surgery risky for children?

Open heart surgery is commonly performed and considered safe at experienced centers. Advanced machines and pediatric cardiac ICUs reduce risks significantly.

Are all types of pediatric heart surgeries available in India?

Yes, India offers the full range of pediatric heart surgeries, including complex newborn surgeries, valve repairs, and catheter-based procedures.

Will my child need lifelong medicines after surgery?

Some children need medicines for a short period, while others may require long-term follow-up only. The doctor will guide you based on the condition.

Can parents stay with the child during treatment?

Yes, hospitals encourage parent presence and provide support for accommodation and attendant visas for international families.

When can my child travel back home after surgery?

Most children can travel 3 to 4 weeks after surgery, once the doctor confirms stable recovery and fitness to travel.

How do we start treatment for pediatric heart surgery in India?

You can begin by sharing your child’s medical reports for evaluation. The hospital team will guide you on treatment options, costs, and travel planning.

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