Inguinal Hernia Repair Surgery Cost in India

What is Cost of Inguinal Hernia Treatment in india?

The inguinal hernia treatment cost in India ranges from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 75,000. However, there are several factors that can impact the cost of treatment in India, including the type of healthcare facility, surgical technique used for hernia repair, experience and reputation of the surgeon performing the procedure, the extent of coverage provided by the health insurance plan, type of anesthesia used, etc. The costs can differ significantly between cities due to differences in living prices, healthcare infrastructure, and market conditions.

An inguinal hernia occurs when a part of the intestine or abdominal tissue protrudes through a weak area or opening in the lower abdominal wall or inguinal canal. Inguinal hernias can also occur through two deeper passages in the groin region, known as the femoral canal. This type of hernia most often contains fat or part of the small intestine. In women, inguinal hernias may include part of the female reproductive system, such as an ovary.

Inguinal hernias can be caused due to muscle weakness, heavy lifting, chronic coughing, or obesity. They are common and can cause discomfort, pain, or complications if left untreated. Surgical repair is the most common treatment for inguinal hernias to prevent further complications and relieve symptoms. Many individuals don't seek treatment for this type of hernia because it may be small or not cause any symptoms. However, immediate medical treatment can help prevent further protrusion and discomfort

What Are The Types Of Surgeries Performed For The Treatment Of Inguinal Hernia?

Here are some of the common types of inguinal hernia surgeries:

1. Laparoscopic surgery: In this procedure, the surgeon creates several tiny incisions in the lower abdomen and inserts a laparoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a small video camera attached to one end). The camera transmits a clear image from inside the body to a monitor, giving the surgeon a close-up picture of the hernia and surrounding tissue. While viewing the monitor, the surgeon operates instruments to carefully repair the hernia using synthetic mesh. Individuals who undergo laparoscopic surgery generally experience a shorter recovery time. However, the doctor may determine laparoscopic surgery is not the most suitable option if the hernia is very large or the person has had pelvic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery is performed using general anesthesia.
2. Open hernia surgery: In open hernia repair, also called herniorrhaphy, the person is given local anesthesia in the spine or abdomen to numb the site, general anesthesia to sedate or help the person sleep, or a combination of the two. The surgeon then makes an incision in the groin, moves the hernia back into the abdomen, and reinforces the muscle wall using stitches. Usually, the area of muscle weakness is reinforced with a synthetic mesh or screen to provide added support. 
3. Robotic-Assisted Hernia Repair:  Robotic surgery is a more recent technique for repairing inguinal hernias. A robotic-assisted inguinal hernia repair is ideal for patients with hernia on both sides of their groin. During this procedure, the surgeon places three ports, one 12 mm at the belly button and two 8 mm ports on each side of the lower abdomen. Since the robotic tools are adjustable and wristed, dissection in the anterior abdominal wall where the hernias are can be done easily. During the hernia repair, the protruding tissue is pushed back in, which helps the abdominal wall regain strength. A special 3D mesh is placed through the 12 mm port for support. Since the robotic arms are wristed, the mesh is placed efficiently, and recovery time is minimal compared to traditional open hernia repair.

Cost Of Different Surgeries Performed For Inguinal Hernia Treatment In India

What Factors Affect The Inguinal Hernia Treatment Cost In India?

Here are some of the key factors that can impact the cost of inguinal hernia treatment in India:

• Hospital Location: The inguinal hernia surgery cost in India varies depending on the hospital’s location. Hospitals in metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore are more expensive than hospitals in smaller cities or towns.
• Surgeon’s Expertise: The surgeon’s expertise and experience can also influence the cost of inguinal hernia surgery in India. Experienced doctors tend to charge more than those who are just starting in the field.
• Cost of diagnostic tests: The cost of diagnostic tests usually performed before inguinal hernia repair surgery is added to the final cost of the surgery.
• The severity of the condition: The severity of the condition also impacts the final cost of the inguinal hernia repair surgery in India. Doctors need to modify the procedure to treat a strangulated or incarcerated hernia, and ultimately, it influences the cost of the surgery. 
• Hospital Charges: The hospital you select to get the inguinal hernia repair surgery will make a significant difference in the overall cost of the surgery. Usually, a government hospital charges less than private hospitals in India.
• Type of procedure used: The type of procedure also impacts the final cost of inguinal hernia repair surgery in India. Inguinal hernia laparoscopic surgery costs more than open hernia surgery. 
• Post-surgery expenses: Post-surgery care usually involves pain management, wound care, and medications. These expenses are also additional to the final cost of the hernia surgery in India. 
• Anesthesia Charges: Anesthesia administration during surgery carries its own cost, which can impact the inguinal hernia surgery cost in India. 
• Health Insurance: The availability and extent of health insurance coverage can significantly affect the out-of-pocket expenses for the patient.

What are the costs of diagnostic tests performed before inguinal hernia treatment in India?

Here are the typical costs for some common diagnostic tests performed before inguinal hernia treatment in India:

• Herniography: This test involves injecting a contrast dye to visualize the hernia. The cost of this test might be around Rs. 4,000 to Rs. 5,000 or more.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests to evaluate overall health and potential surgery risks could range from Rs. 500 to Rs. 2,500 or higher.
• X-ray: In some cases, an X-ray might be needed. The cost of an X-ray could be around Rs. 500 to Rs. 800 or more.
• CT Scan: A CT scan could cost anywhere from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 10,000 or higher, depending on factors like the type of CT scan and the hospital.
• MRI: The cost of an MRI might be in the range of Rs. 4,000 to Rs. 8,000 or more, based on the location and the healthcare facility.

Does Insurance Cover Inguinal Hernia Surgery Cost In India?

Yes. Inguinal hernia surgery cost in India is covered by almost all insurance policies. All types of hernias, including inguinal hernia, can lead to serious life-threatening complications if not treated. Therefore, it comes under medically necessary procedures. With insurance, an individual can cover the complete cost of treatment, given the condition that the policy coverage is sufficient. To know more about the terms and conditions of the insurance policy, it is essential to talk to your health insurance provider.