About Aortic Dissection Repair Surgery
An aortic dissection is a tear in the wall of the aorta, the body’s largest artery, and is a life-threatening emergency.
Blood forces its way between the layers of the aortic wall, which can cut off the supply of oxygen and nutrients to vital organs. Dissections of the ascending aorta usually need emergency surgery.
An acute dissection is treated at the nearest hospital able to manage it. Travelling to India is usually relevant only for patients who are stable, for example for planned repair or follow-up treatment, as their doctors advise.
Traditional vs Minimally Invasive Options
Open-Heart Repair: Traditional method requiring full sternotomy (chest opening). Used for ascending aortic or aortic arch dissections. Surgery duration: 4-8 hours. Hospital stay: 5-10 days.
Endovascular Repair (EVAR/TEVAR): Less invasive approach that may be advised for patients who may not be strong enough for open-heart surgery or for descending aortic dissections. Procedure duration: 2-3 hours. Faster recovery.
What partner hospitals offer
- Both Open and Endovascular Options: Treatment approach tailored to your specific dissection type and location
- Imaging: CT angiography and intraoperative monitoring
- Cardiac Intensive Care: Specialised ICU monitoring after surgery
Outcomes depend on your condition and the surgeon. Ask the treating hospital for its own outcome data before you decide.
Recovery & Travel Timeline
Open-Heart Repair
- Hospital Stay: 5-10 days with 1-2 days in ICU
- Initial Recovery: 4-6 weeks
- Fit to Fly: 6-8 weeks minimum with medical clearance
- Return to Work: 2-3 months for non-physical jobs
- Full recovery: about 2-3 months
- Sternum Healing: 6 weeks
Endovascular Repair
- Hospital Stay: 3-5 days
- Recovery Time: 2-3 weeks
- Fit to Fly: 3-4 weeks
- Return to Activities: 4-6 weeks
Plan for an extended stay in India: usually 6-8 weeks after open repair and 3-4 weeks after endovascular repair, until the surgeon clears you to fly. Lifelong blood pressure control and regular imaging follow-up are usually needed, and your doctors at home continue this care.
Cost in India
Costs depend on the hospital, the procedure and your reports. Send your reports and the hospital will prepare a written estimate; you pay the hospital directly.
