VP Shunt Surgery Cost in India

As of 2020, the estimated cost of VP Shunt Surgery in India typically starts at $6000 and may go up to as much as $10,000. The cost varies depending on the hospital charges and the fee charged by the surgeon. It’s important to note that this price usually does not cover post-operative rehabilitation and medications. Additional costs may involve diagnostics before the surgery and preoperative consultations.

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What is VP Shunt Surgery?

VP shunt surgery is a procedure aimed at removing excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that circulates around the brain and spinal cord. This excess fluid can cause harmful pressure on the brain and skull, a condition known as hydrocephalus.

Symptoms of Hydrocephalus:

The most common symptoms of hydrocephalus include headaches, double vision or blurred vision, poor coordination, nausea and vomiting, irritability, problems with thinking and memory loss (e.g., confusion), trouble with balance and walking, loss of control over urination, changes in behavior.

Purpose of VP Shunt Surgery:

To alleviate the effects of excess CSF on the brain, a VP shunt is placed into the head. The shunt redirects the excess fluid from the brain to the abdomen, where it is absorbed by the body. This helps reduce the pressure and swelling in the head.

Risks and Complications of VP Shunt Surgery:

Undergoing general anesthesia for VP shunt surgery is generally safe for most people, but some individuals may experience adverse effects such as breathing problems, changes in blood pressure, and changes in heart rate.

Signs that a VP shunt may not be functioning correctly include redness or swelling where the catheter passes under the skin, loss of coordination or balance, persistent vomiting, unrelenting headaches, extreme fatigue, difficulty staying awake, irritability.

Components of VP Shunt Surgery:

A VP shunt consists of three main components: a one-way valve with a reservoir, a short catheter (thin, flexible tube), and a long catheter. The valve controls the movement of fluid and is attached to the short catheter to drain fluid away from the brain. The short catheter can be placed in various locations on the head, and the long catheter is connected to the valve and tunneled under the skin, down the neck, behind the ear, and into the abdomen.

Preparation for VP Shunt Surgery:

Preparation for VP shunt surgery may involve stopping alcohol consumption, discontinuing vitamin E intake, avoiding herbal remedies and supplements, discussing existing medications, disclosing allergies, addressing concerns about smoking and sleep apnea, and following specific fasting instructions before the surgery.

Pre-Surgical Testing:

Before the surgery, various tests such as an electrocardiogram (EKG), chest x-ray, blood tests, CT scan, and MRI of the brain may be conducted to plan the surgery and ensure the patient’s well-being.

During the VP Shunt Surgery Procedure:

The VP shunt surgery is performed in the operating room under general anesthesia and typically takes about 1 1/2 hours. The surgeon makes three small incisions: one in the head, one in the neck, and one in the abdomen to correctly place the catheters. The catheters are inserted under the skin and directed from the head to the abdomen, allowing for proper drainage of excess CSF.

After the VP Shunt Surgery:

After the surgery, the patient is taken to the recovery area and then moved to a hospital room or the ICU, depending on their condition. The recovery period generally takes 3-4 days, and most patients can leave the hospital within 7 days post-surgery. During hospitalization, the patient’s vital signs are monitored, and preventive antibiotics may be administered. The doctor ensures that the shunt is functioning correctly before the patient is discharged.

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Recovery from VP Shunt Surgery:

During the recovery period, patients may undergo monitoring, including questions about their orientation, movement tests, and pupil reactions to a light source to assess brain function. A follow-up CT scan may be conducted a week after the surgery to confirm the proper placement of the catheter.

Overall, VP shunt surgery is an important medical procedure that can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from hydrocephalus by relieving pressure on the brain through the proper drainage of excess cerebrospinal fluid. The cost of this surgery in India can vary based on several factors, including the hospital, surgeon fees, diagnostics, and post-operative care. It’s essential to consult with medical professionals and plan accordingly for this surgical intervention.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is hydrocephalus, and how does it relate to VP shunt surgery?

A1: Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain, leading to increased pressure and potential damage. VP shunt surgery is a procedure to manage this condition by diverting excess CSF away from the brain to alleviate pressure.

Q2: How long does the VP shunt surgery procedure typically last?

A2: The VP shunt surgery procedure usually takes about 1 1/2 hours to complete. However, the overall time can vary based on individual circumstances and the complexity of the surgery.

Q3: Are there any risks associated with VP shunt surgery?

A3: Yes, like any surgical procedure, VP shunt surgery carries certain risks. These can include infection, bleeding, complications related to anesthesia, malfunction or blockage of the shunt, over-drainage or under-drainage of CSF, and in rare cases, damage to brain tissue.

Q4: How long is the recovery period after VP shunt surgery?

A4: The recovery from VP shunt surgery typically takes around 3-4 days in the hospital, with most patients being able to leave within 7 days post-surgery. However, the complete recovery and return to normal activities may take several weeks, during which follow-up appointments with the medical team are essential.

Q5: Can the VP shunt settings be adjusted after surgery?

A5: Yes, if a programmable VP shunt is used, the settings can be adjusted by the healthcare provider to control the drainage of CSF based on the patient’s needs. However, non-programmable VP shunts have predetermined settings that cannot be changed.

Q6: What are the signs that indicate a potential issue with the VP shunt after surgery?

A6: Signs that the VP shunt may not be functioning correctly include redness or swelling where the catheter passes under the skin, loss of coordination or balance, persistent vomiting, unrelenting headaches, extreme fatigue, and irritability. If any of these signs are observed, medical attention should be sought promptly.

Q7: How frequently should follow-up appointments be scheduled after VP shunt surgery?

A7: Follow-up appointments after VP shunt surgery are typically scheduled as per the surgeon’s recommendation, which may include immediate post-operative visits and subsequent check-ups over several months. The frequency of these appointments is essential for monitoring the shunt’s functionality and the patient’s overall progress.

Q8: Are there lifestyle restrictions following VP shunt surgery?

A8: While there may be restrictions immediately after surgery, most patients can eventually resume normal activities. However, individuals with VP shunts should avoid certain activities that could potentially harm the shunt, such as high-contact sports or activities involving rapid changes in pressure, like scuba diving. It’s crucial to consult the healthcare team for specific guidelines.

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• Providing a doctor’s opinion and proper quotation
• Selecting the best hospital and doctor as per your case
• Arranging a call with the doctor (if the case required)
• Visa assistance, Providing Visa Invitation Letter (VIL)
• Providing full guidance how to get Visa from your country
• Providing total cost including treatment, air tickets, accommodation, and food
• Assitance to book flight ticket from your country
• Arranging airport pick up/ drop
• Providing professional language interpreter
• Booking accommodation and guest house as per your budget/ prefrence
• Providing help in money exchanging
• Providing local sim card
• Arranging video consultation with specialist doctor if case requires

Get Opinion From Doctor

We offers these Services

• Providing a doctor’s opinion and proper quotation
• Selecting the best hospital and doctor as per your case
• Arranging a call with the doctor (if the case required)
• Visa assistance, Providing Visa Invitation Letter (VIL)
• Providing full guidance how to get Visa from your country
• Providing total cost including treatment, air tickets, accommodation, and food
• Assitance to book flight ticket from your country
• Arranging airport pick up/ drop
• Providing professional language interpreter
• Booking accommodation and guest house as per your budget/ prefrence
• Providing help in money exchanging
• Providing local sim card
• Arranging video consultation with specialist doctor if case requires

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