Cost Of Lithotripsy In India - Lowest Cost Estimate

What Is Lithotripsy?

Lithotripsy is a non-invasive procedure to break down and treat stones in the kidneys, gallbladder, or ureters. Stones of the kidneys, gallbladder, and ureters are incredibly common today and may form due to a range of factors. Out of the several treatment options available, ‘lithotripsy’ is considered to be one of the most reliable treatments for these stones. A lithotripsy procedure uses shockwaves to break the stones into smaller fragments, to allow them to easily pass through the patient’s urine stream. 

Lithotripsy is of two types: 

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy or ESWL:

In ESWL, shockwaves are used to reduce stones to smaller pieces or dust. A lithotripter is used to direct sound waves at the stones, which break down the stone, and the pieces pass through the system naturally in a couple of days or weeks after the procedure. 

The cost of the ESWL procedure in India typically ranges between Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 50,000. 

Flexible Ureteroscopy and Lasertripsy or FURSL:

In this procedure, the doctor uses an endoscope for the treatment of ureter stones. An endoscope is a flexible tube with a light and camera at the end. This tube allows the doctor to locate the stones conveniently. Upon locating the stones, the doctor uses a laser to break them into pieces. The fragmented pieces pass through the urine within a few days and weeks following the procedure. FURSL procedure can cost you anywhere between Rs. 65,000 to Rs. 80,000. 

Both lithotripsy procedures are considered effective in removing painful stones and relieving patients of discomforting symptoms. The type of procedure suitable for the patient is generally selected by the doctor based on the severity of the patient’s condition along with their overall health. 

Factors Affecting The Cost Of Lithotripsy In India

The cost of the lithotripsy procedure in India isn’t the same across cities. The treatment expense that patients have to bear differs significantly, and the reasons are manifold. Aside from some standard factors, some specific factors concerning the patient’s health, etc, can also impact the treatment expense that patients have to bear. Any hospital or healthcare center where you’ll seek treatment will consider all these factors before giving you a cost estimate for your treatment. The final cost may further differ. Listed below are some common factors that are considered before deciding the cost of lithotripsy in India: 

• Treatment City: A significant factor impacting the cost of lithotripsy in India is the treatment city. The treatment costs are generally higher in tier 1 cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc. On the contrary, patients seeking treatment in Tier 2 or Tier 2 cities may have to bear a comparatively lower treatment cost. 

• Treatment Hospital: The patient’s choice of treatment hospital- private or government also affects the expense they have to bear. If you receive your treatment at government hospitals, you’ll most likely bear a lower treatment cost. Private hospitals, on the other hand, charge comparatively higher. This difference generally arises due to the difference in the quality of treatment provided at the two facilities. 

• Doctor’s Experience: Consulting with an experienced doctor can benefit you in multiple ways. A doctor with good experience in the respective field will ensure effective treatment outcomes and minimal complications in the process. Additionally, an experienced doctor will most likely educate you about the condition and would answer any questions you may have about the condition or procedure. 

• The Reason For Lithotripsy: A lithotripsy procedure may be performed to treat stones of the kidney, gallbladder or ureter, and the cost of the procedure can vary based on which part is being operated on. 

• Severity Of The Condition: The cost of the procedure will also vary based on the complexity of the condition i.e., the size and number of the stones, or any underlying conditions that may have arisen. If the condition is severe, the treatment charges may be higher. 

• Additional Costs In Case Of Complications: There’s always a chance of complications with medical procedures. If complications arise during the procedure, the doctor may have to club additional procedures with traditional lithotripsy, which may increase the total treatment expense. 

Is Lithotripsy Covered Under Insurance?

Stones in the kidneys, gallbladder, or ureter can lead to serious complications, which necessitate timely treatment. If this procedure is performed in ‘medically necessary’ circumstances i.e., there are chances of serious complications if treatment is skipped, it will be covered under both health insurance and mediclaim policies. What’s subject to differ is the amount of coverage offered by different insurance companies. Similarly, there may also be a difference in the coverage and additional benefits offered by health insurance and mediclaim policies. 

To obtain absolute clarity on the insurance coverage for lithotripsy, you must reach out to your respective insurance provider. They will help you understand the specifics of your policy, and will also explain the terms and conditions, and insurance claim procedure in detail. At Pristyn Care, we accept all health insurances and also provide complete assistance to the patients in the insurance claim process. 

What Are The Benefits Of Lithotripsy?

A lithotripsy procedure has various benefits, which is precisely why most doctors rely upon this advanced method of stone removal. Listed below are some of the numerous benefits of lithotripsy that you should know of: 

• A non-invasive procedure involving no cuts or incisions. 
• No hospital stay is required. Patients can return home within a few hours of the procedure. 
• Short, 1-2 hour procedures.
• Minimal risk of post-procedure complications. 
• Patients experience significant relief from their symptoms.
• There’s a significant improvement in the quality of life of the patient due to a reduction in the discomfort caused by the condition. 

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