Heart Transplant
A heart transplant is one of the most remarkable achievements in modern medicine. It offers a second chance at life for patients with severe heart failure when other treatments no longer work. In simple terms, the procedure involves replacing a diseased or failing heart with a healthy donor heart. At CureU Healthcare, we guide international patients in accessing the best heart transplant programs in India, where highly skilled cardiac surgeons and advanced medical facilities ensure excellent outcomes.
What Is a Heart Transplant?
A heart transplant is a surgical procedure in which a failing heart is replaced with a healthy donor heart from a person who has passed away. It is considered when the heart can no longer pump enough blood to sustain the body’s needs, even after medication, lifestyle changes, or other surgical interventions.
This life-saving surgery restores normal heart function, allowing patients to enjoy a healthier and more active life.
When Is a Heart Transplant Needed?
A heart transplant is recommended when patients suffer from end-stage heart failure or other severe cardiac conditions, such as:
- Dilated cardiomyopathy a condition where the heart muscle becomes weak and enlarged.
- Severe coronary artery disease with irreversible heart damage.
- Congenital heart disease that cannot be corrected with other surgeries.
- Restrictive cardiomyopathy or scarring of the heart muscle.
- Repeated hospitalizations due to worsening heart failure symptoms.
The Heart Transplant Procedure
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and involves several key steps:
- Preparation and Monitoring The patient is placed under anesthesia, and vital functions are closely monitored.
- Removal of Diseased Heart The failing heart is carefully removed, leaving parts of the atria and major vessels intact.
- Implantation of Donor Heart The healthy donor heart is connected to the patient’s blood vessels and stitched into place.
- Restarting the Heart The new heart is stimulated to beat, and the patient is gradually weaned off the heart-lung bypass machine.
- Post-Surgery Care Intensive monitoring in the ICU ensures stability before moving to recovery.
Recovery After Heart Transplant
The road to recovery after a heart transplant requires careful monitoring and long-term commitment. Patients usually stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 weeks after surgery. During this time, doctors monitor the new heart’s function and adjust medications.
Key aspects of recovery include
- Immunosuppressive medications to prevent the body from rejecting the donor heart.
- Cardiac rehabilitation programs to rebuild strength and endurance.
- Regular follow-ups including biopsies and imaging tests to monitor heart health.
- Lifestyle adjustments such as a heart-healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding infections.
Risks and Challenges
Like any major surgery, a heart transplant carries some risks, such as:
- Rejection of the donor heart.
- Infections due to immunosuppressive therapy.
- Side effects of lifelong medications.
- Blood clot formation or coronary artery vasculopathy.
Success Rates and Life Expectancy
The success rate of heart transplants has improved tremendously over the past decades. In India, survival rates are comparable to global standards. On average:
- 85-90% of patients survive the first year after surgery.
- 70-75% survive 5 years or more.
- Many patients live beyond 15-20 years with their new heart.
Heart Transplant Cost in India
India has become a leading destination for international patients seeking affordable yet high-quality heart transplants. The cost of heart transplant in India typically ranges between ₹20–25 lakhs (USD 25,000–35,000). This cost is significantly lower compared to Western countries, while maintaining world-class surgical expertise and care standards.
At CureU Healthcare, we ensure patients receive end-to-end support, including donor heart arrangements, hospital selection, visa assistance, and compassionate medical guidance.
Why Choose India for Heart Transplant?
- Globally trained cardiac surgeons with decades of experience.
- Accredited hospitals with advanced transplant programs.
- Affordable treatment without compromising on quality.
- Comprehensive care including post-transplant rehabilitation.
- Strong support system for international patients through CureU Healthcare.
Conclusion
A heart transplant is not just a surgery—it is a gift of life. For patients with end-stage heart failure, it represents a chance to live longer, healthier, and more meaningful lives. With cutting-edge healthcare facilities and highly skilled specialists, India has emerged as a trusted hub for heart transplants. At CureU Healthcare, our mission is to guide patients every step of the way, ensuring safe, successful, and compassionate treatment journeys.
