Evaluating Angioplasty Cost – The Price of a Healthy Heart
India has one of the highest rates of cardiovascular diseases in the world. Some of the most common CVDs in India are stroke and heart attack. And for each of these diseases, the treatment process is different. An angioplasty is one such treatment often done in emergent situations such as cardiac arrests. Such emergent situations can be overwhelming and fatal. Additionally, angioplasty cost can also be difficult to manage without adequate planning and awareness.
The deaths resulting from CVD doubled from 2.26 million to 4.77 million between 1990 and 2020. During this time, the prevalence of CVD has also increased in urban and rural areas. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3408699/#:~:text=The%20annual%20number%20of%20deaths,in%20urban%20populations%20(2).) Therefore, the importance of being financially prepared for CVD or any such health crisis has increased significantly.
This article will discuss process of angioplasty angioplasty cost, when it’s required, and whether it’s a permanent solution.
- What is angioplasty?
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat narrow or blocked blood vessels, typically in the coronary arteries of the heart. During angioplasty, a thin tube called a catheter is inserted into the blocked artery, and a small balloon at the end of the catheter is inflated to widen the vessel and restore blood flow. In some cases, a stent—a tiny metal mesh tube—is placed to keep the artery open.
The stent is positioned in the treated area and acts as a scaffold, providing support to the artery walls and preventing them from narrowing again. Stents can be either bare metal or drug-eluting, which means they are coated with medication that helps prevent the artery from re-narrowing. This combination of angioplasty and stenting is often referred to as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Angioplasty helps improve blood supply to the heart, relieving symptoms of reduced blood flow and reducing the risk of heart attacks.
- How much does angioplasty cost?
Angioplasty is a clinical procedure subject to different variables. And the cost of an angioplasty may vary depending on the hospital, the specialist, and even the city. However, in India, the average angioplasty cost is 1.75 lakhs INR. The pricing may range between 1.6 lakh INR to 2 lakh INR at any multi-specialty and super-specialty hospital.
- Why should I opt for an angioplasty?
- The fatty plaque deposition in your blood vessels or atherosclerosis is the primary reason why you should opt for an angioplasty. However, it is not the first course of action. As mentioned earlier, since angioplasty is an emergent action, doctors prescribe medicines to control and manage your cardiovascular health.
- Besides atherosclerosis, in the cases of angina, angioplasty can be recommended. An angina is when the blood flow in your heart is restricted. Much like atherosclerosis, angina can also be treated or managed with medication. However, it can trigger excruciating pain due to physical activities and stress.
- Is angioplasty a permanent solution?
Angioplasty, by itself, is not considered a permanent solution for treating narrowed or blocked arteries. While it can provide immediate relief by opening up the blocked vessel and restoring blood flow, there is a possibility of the artery narrowing again over time. This re-narrowing is known as restenosis and can occur in a significant number of cases.
To help reduce the risk of restenosis, stents are often used during angioplasty. The stent acts as a scaffold, keeping the artery open and providing long-term support. Drug-eluting stents, in particular, release medication that helps prevent restenosis by inhibiting the growth of scar tissue. However, even with the use of stents, there is still a potential for the artery to narrow again, albeit at a reduced rate compared to angioplasty alone. Regular medical follow-up, lifestyle changes, and adherence to prescribed medications are important in maintaining the effectiveness of the angioplasty procedure and minimizing the risk of further complications.
Conclusion
If your loved ones need an angioplasty, it is important to follow a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle before and after the procedure. A healthy lifestyle can also help to avoid any post-operative complications as well. When it’s about the health and well-being of our loved ones, price hardly ever matter. However, being financially prepared for any and all health crises is crucial.
Research different experts and hospitals to develop an in-depth awareness about angioplasty cost.
