Hydrocephalus Treatment Cost in India

What is Hydrocephalus Treatment?

Hydrocephalus is a neurological condition in which excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulates within the brain’s ventricles, leading to increased pressure. It is often seen in children and can be treated through surgical and non-surgical procedures. 

The most common surgical treatments are:

• Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt Surgery: Involves placing a ventriculoperitoneal shunt through surgery. This is implanted to divert CSF from the brain to another part of the body, generally the abdominal cavity, where it can be absorbed.
• Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV): Diverts or regulates CSF flow without a shunt. A neurosurgeon creates a small hole in the floor of the third ventricle to allow CSF to bypass blockages and flow naturally around the brain for absorption.
• ETV with Choroid Plexus Cauterization (ETV/CPC): Primarily used in children under 2 years, this procedure combines ETV with cauterisation of the choroid plexus to reduce CSF production. It is primarily used in children under 2 years.

Non-surgical treatment involves:

• Medication: Drugs like Acetazolamide are used to reduce CSF production temporarily by inducing hyperosmotic diuresis.
• Lumbar Drainage: Inserting a catheter into the lower back to drain excess CSF temporarily.
• Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation to manage symptoms after surgery.

Who Should Get Hydrocephalus Treatment?

Surgery is often suggested to treat hydrocephalus and is also popular for its effectiveness. Here are a few cases where a hydrocephalus treatment could be necessary:

1. Infants and Children

• Congenital Hydrocephalus: Babies born with hydrocephalus often require immediate intervention. Genetic abnormalities or fetal development complications can cause excess fluid buildup in the brain.
• Acquired Hydrocephalus: Children who develop hydrocephalus due to trauma, infection, or tumors need prompt treatment. Early intervention helps manage brain pressure and supports healthier development.

2. Adults

• Acquired Hydrocephalus: Adults with head injuries, infections, or tumors sometimes experience fluid buildup leading to headaches, nausea, or cognitive challenges. Surgical procedures, such as shunt placement, help reduce symptoms.
• Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH): Older adults diagnosed with NPH can benefit from shunt surgery if evaluations show that symptoms like difficulty walking, memory loss, or urinary incontinence improve when excess fluid is drained.

Always consult a doctor to understand if you are the right candidate for this surgery

Hydrocephalus Treatment Cost in India at a Glance

Here is a broad overview of the different types of hydrocephalus treatment costs in India.

Table 1: Hydrocephalus Treatment Cost According to Procedures in INR and USD

These figures generally cover both routine surgical and non-surgical treatments performed without complications.

Factors Influencing Hydrocephalus Treatment Cost in India

A few elements can affect your hydrocephalus treatment bill, like the following:

• Medication Costs.
• Duration of Treatment.
• Hospitalisation Expenses.
• Government Policies and Subsidies.
• Medical Tourism Packages in India.
• Hospital Reputation and Infrastructure.
• Expertise of Medical Professionals.
• Type of Medical Diagnostics.
• Choice of Treatment.

City-Wise Hydrocephalus Treatment Costs in India

Here is an overview of hydrocephalus treatment costs (minimum to maximum) in major Indian cities. USD equivalents are approximate and subject to currency fluctuations.

Metros such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru generally have broader cost brackets because of a higher density of high-end hospitals. Tier-2 cities can offer slightly lower prices while still delivering quality care. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider for precise cost estimates.

India vs. Other Countries: Hydrocephalus Treatment Cost

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

Additional Expenses: Pre- and Post-Hydrocephalus Treatment

The treatment includes some pre- and post-treatment tests, diagnostics and follow-ups. Here are a few:

Pre-Treatment Costs

1. Consultations & Diagnostic Tests:

• Specialist Consult: INR 1,500–INR 3,500 (USD 18–USD 44)
• EEG: INR 500–INR 2,000 (USD 6 - USD 23)
• MRI Scan: INR 6,000–INR 12,000 (USD 70–USD 140)
• CT Scan: INR 3,000–INR 8,000 (USD 35–USD 95)
• Blood Tests: INR 1,500–INR 3,000 (USD 18–USD 35)

2. Other Evaluations:

• Patients with hypertension or diabetes, along with their disease, may need supplementary tests that might cost between INR 2,000 and INR 5,000 (USD 25 - USD 60).

Post-Treatment Costs

• Medications: Post-surgery medications may range from INR 5000- 15000 (USD 60–USD 175) depending on the complexity of the treatment.
• Follow-Up Consultations: In some cases, regular follow-ups might be necessary. Each consultation may cost INR 1,500 - INR 3,500 (USD 18–USD 44).

Unexpected Complications

• In rare instances, re-hospitalisation may add to your expenditure.

Insurance Coverage and Financing

India offers one of the most cost-effective options for advanced neurological procedures. Many leading hospitals accept both domestic and international insurance plans, significantly reducing the hydrocephalus treatment costs in India. Insurance coverage for neurosurgery often includes critical interventions such as brain tumor removal, hydrocephalus surgery in India, spinal decompression, and aneurysm repair under essential policies of illness.

Comprehensive plans usually cover hospitalisation, ICU care, surgeon fees, diagnostics, and post-operative rehabilitation. However, patients are advised to check if treatment for hydrocephalus is explicitly included, as some policies may have exclusions, waiting periods, or limitations on pre-existing neurological conditions.

Despite the high quality of care, the cost of neurosurgery in India remains 60–80% lower compared to the US or Europe. Renowned hospitals feature globally trained neurosurgeons, advanced surgical technologies, and internationally accredited infrastructure, making India a preferred destination for affordable and reliable care.

Tips to Reduce Hydrocephalus Treatment Expenses

Medical treatment can get slightly expensive depending on the complexity of the condition. Here are a few ways you can manage and cut down on your treatment expenses:

• Compare costs across different hospitals and cities in India.
• Look for package deals that include surgery and post-operative care.
• Consider treatment in tier-2 cities for potentially lower costs.
• Explore medical tourism facilitators for better rates and assistance.
• Check if you qualify for any government health schemes or subsidies.

With such initiatives, it is possible to make well-informed and budget-friendly decisions and prioritise one's health.

Why Choose MediJourney?

Planning for a complex procedure like hydrocephalus surgery in India can feel like a big step, especially when you're navigating unfamiliar healthcare systems and costs from miles away.

That’s where MediJourney comes in.

We simplify the process from start to finish. Whether it’s helping estimate accurate hydrocephalus treatment costs in India, connecting with skilled neurosurgeons, or choosing from accredited hospitals. We also support you with medical visas, flight bookings, accommodation, and hospital coordination so you can focus on healing, not paperwork.

India is known for offering advanced neurosurgical care at a fraction of global costs. With MediJourney as a trusted guide, accessing high-quality treatment becomes easier, safer, and more affordable.

Let MediJourney handle the journey so that recovery is all you need to think about. Get in touch with us and take the first step toward expert care that respects both your health and your budget.

FAQs About Hydrocephalus Treatment Cost in India

Q1. How successful is surgical treatment for hydrocephalus?

Answer: Surgical options like shunt placement are often highly effective, with symptom improvement seen in about 90% of patients shortly after surgery.

Q2. What improvements can patients expect after hydrocephalus surgery?

Answer: Patients often experience a better quality of life, especially those with iNPH, showing improvements across physical and cognitive functions within 21 months.

Q3. How quickly do symptoms improve after hydrocephalus surgery?

Answer: Some symptoms, like walking issues and bladder control, may improve within days, though full recovery can take weeks or months.