Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India: Plan Your Treatment Today

What is Craniotomy Surgery?

A Craniotomy is a surgical procedure in which a portion of the skull is temporarily removed to access the brain. This technique is employed to treat various conditions, including brain tumors, traumatic brain injuries, aneurysms, and other neurological disorders. The removed bone flap is typically replaced after the procedure.

The Craniotomy surgery cost in India is much affordable compared to other countries.

Types of Craniotomy Procedures

• Traditional Craniotomy: It involves a standard method for brain access.
• Keyhole Craniotomy: Minimally invasive and is used for smaller tumours and lesions.
• Awake Craniotomy: During this procedure, the patient remains awake to ensure critical brain functions remain intact after surgery.
• Endoscopic Craniotomy: This involves using a small camera for precise procedures.

Who Needs Craniotomy Surgery?

1. Brain Tumor Patients:

A craniotomy is often used to diagnose, remove, or treat brain tumours, including both benign and malignant types.

2. Those with Hematomas or Blood Clots:

Patients with subdural or extradural hematomas, which are blood clots pressing on the brain, may require a craniotomy to relieve pressure.

3. Aneurysm or Vascular Malformation Patients:

Craniotomy can be used to clip or repair aneurysms and address arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) or arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs).

4. Traumatic Brain Injury Victims:

Individuals with severe head injuries causing brain swelling or skull fractures may need a craniotomy to relieve intracranial pressure or repair fractures.

5. Epilepsy Patients:

In some cases, a craniotomy is performed to remove the part of the brain causing seizures.

6. Those with Infections or Abscesses:

Craniotomy can be used to drain brain abscesses or treat infections.

7. Patients Requiring Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS):

Individuals with movement disorders like Parkinson's disease may undergo a craniotomy for the implantation of DBS devices.

8. Skull Base Tumor Patients:

Complex tumors located at the base of the skull may require specialised craniotomy approaches like the orbitozygomatic or extended bifrontal Craniotomy.

Always consult a doctor to determine if the surgery and the surgical procedure are the right options for you.

Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India at a Glance

Craniotomy surgery costs in India can broadly be categorised into the following approximate ranges:

• Minimum Cost: INR 1,60,000 (about USD 1,935)
• Average Cost: INR 2,50,000 to INR 5,00,000 (about USD 2,894 to USD 6,045)
• Maximum Cost: INR 8,00,000 (about USD 9,670)

These figures generally cover routine craniotomy surgery performed without complications.

Factors Influencing Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India

Several elements can affect your Craniotomy bill. Here are some factors affecting Craniotomy surgery cost in India

• Surgeon's Expertise and Experience: Fees for neurosurgeons vary based on their experience and reputation. Highly skilled surgeons may charge more due to their proven track record of successful outcomes.
• Procedure Complexity: The complexity of the surgery, such as whether it is a minimally invasive or traditional craniotomy, impacts costs. Minimally invasive procedures may have higher initial costs but can reduce recovery time and hospital stays.
• Pre- and Post-Operative Care: The costs associated with diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT scans), anaesthesia, ICU stays, and rehabilitation add to the overall expense.

City-Wise Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India

Here is an overview of craniotomy surgery costs in major Indian cities. USD equivalents are approximate and subject to currency fluctuations.

Due to the presence of specialty hospitals, major metropolitan cities have a wider cost range. In contrast, Tier-2 cities often provide more affordable options while maintaining quality care. For accurate cost estimates, it's best to consult a healthcare provider.

India vs. Other Countries: Craniotomy Surgery Cost

Medical tourists often compare multiple destinations for the best combination of cost and expertise. Below is a generalised comparison:

Though international destinations also attract numerous overseas patients, India’s balance of affordability, advanced hospital infrastructure, and highly trained specialists sets it apart for affordable Craniotomy surgery in India.

Additional Expenses: Pre- and Post-Craniotomy Surgery

Pre-Treatment Costs

1. Consultations & Diagnostic Tests:

• Specialist Consult: INR 800–INR 2,000 (USD 9.2 - USD 23)
• MRI Scan: INR 5,000–INR 10,000 (USD 58 - USD 116)
• CT Scan: INR 2,000–INR 5,000 (USD 23 - USD 58)
• EEG: INR 500–INR 2,000 (USD 6 - USD 23)
• Blood Tests and Other Pre-Operative Tests: INR 5,000 - INR 10,000 (USD 58 - USD 116)

2. Other Evaluations:

• If you have coexisting conditions like hypertension or diabetes, additional tests may be required.

Post-Treatment Costs

• Medications: INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 (USD 60.98 to USD 121.95)
• Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy: INR 10,000 to INR 50,000 or more (USD 121.95 to USD 609.76 or more)
• Follow-Up Consultations: INR 500 to INR 2,000 per session (USD 6.10 to USD 24.39)

Unexpected Complications

In rare instances, re-hospitalization may add to your expenditure. Additionally, there is a slight possibility of complications such as:

• Bleeding and hematoma
• Infection
• Inflammation and fluid accumulation

These complications may require further medical intervention, which could increase costs.

Insurance Coverage and Financing

Most major Indian hospitals accept domestic and international insurance for Craniotomy procedures. It's advisable to check with your insurance provider regarding coverage specifics, including pre-authorization requirements and network hospitals.

For those without insurance, several hospitals offer financing options or payment plans to manage the low-cost Craniotomy surgery in India.

Tips to Reduce Craniotomy Surgery Expenses

Here are some tips to lower the cost of brain surgery (Craniotomy) in India

• Insurance Coverage: Ensure you have comprehensive health insurance that covers neurosurgical procedures. Check what percentage of the surgery is covered.
• Financing Options: Many hospitals offer EMI plans or medical loans with flexible repayment terms to help spread the financial burden over several months.
• Pre-Operative Tests: To avoid additional expenses, ensure that all necessary pre-operative tests are covered under your insurance or included in the hospital package.
• Negotiate with Hospitals: Some hospitals may be willing to negotiate costs, especially if you are paying out of pocket. It's worth asking for potential discounts.

These initiatives empower individuals to make well-informed, cost-effective decisions while prioritising their health.

Why Choose MediJourney for Craniotomy Surgery in India?

Craniotomy surgery is a critical procedure demanding exceptional precision, skill, and meticulous care. Craniotomy surgery cost in India varies depending on multiple factors, such as hospital location, surgeon expertise, and the complexity of the procedure. 

Medijourney understands that planning for brain surgery overseas can seem daunting, which is why we're dedicated to providing complete support throughout your medical journey. 

We connect you with leading neurosurgeons and renowned hospitals in India, simplifying the process by managing visa requirements, travel arrangements, accommodations, and hospital logistics. Our end-to-end assistance ensures a smooth, worry-free experience, allowing patients to concentrate fully on their recovery. With Medijourney, patients and families can approach brain surgery with confidence and peace of mind.

Make us your partner in this critical phase, and get premium care at affordable prices. Contact us today!

FAQs About Craniotomy Surgery in India

Q1. How much does Craniotomy surgery cost in India?

Answer: The cost of Craniotomy surgery in India typically ranges from USD 4,900 to USD 7,500, depending on the hospital, city, surgeon's expertise, and the complexity of the case.

Q2. What factors influence the cost of Craniotomy surgery in India?

Answer: Several factors affect the overall cost, including:

• Type and complexity of the procedure
• Hospital infrastructure and location
• Surgeon’s experience
• Duration of hospital stay
• Pre- and post-operative care
• Diagnostic tests and medications

Q3. What is the recovery time after Craniotomy surgery?

Answer: Recovery time usually ranges between 5 to 7 weeks. Patients may need follow-up therapy, rest, and regular checkups for optimal recovery.

Q4. What are the risks associated with Craniotomy surgery?

Answer: While generally safe, Craniotomy carries some risks, such as:

• Infection or bleeding
• Brain swelling
• Neurological deficits
• Seizures
• Reaction to anesthesia

Choosing a skilled surgeon and a reputed hospital significantly reduces these risks.