Cost of Surgical Treatments for Aortic Valve Stenosis

Aortic valve replacement surgery is a well-established procedure for treating aortic valve stenosis. The overall cost of the surgery depends on the type of valve used and the surgical approach. Below is a detailed breakdown of the average expenses associated with different types of procedures:

Mechanical Valve Replacement

Traditional mechanical valve replacement is the most commonly performed procedure and is considered highly effective. If a mechanical valve is used and the surgery proceeds without complications, the total cost typically ranges around 80,000 RMB. This includes hospitalization, surgery, and post-operative care.

Biological Valve Replacement

For patients opting for a biological valve replacement, the cost can vary depending on the type of valve selected. Currently, biological valves are mainly categorized into bovine (cow) and porcine (pig) valves. These valves generally range from 20,000 to 60,000 RMB. On average, a biological valve may cost 30,000 to 50,000 RMB more than a mechanical valve, making this option more expensive overall.

Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement

The minimally invasive approach requires peripheral cardiopulmonary bypass support and specialized cannulas, which increases the complexity and cost of the procedure. Compared to traditional open-chest surgery, this method may add approximately 10,000 RMB to the total cost. Therefore, patients should expect to pay around 90,000 to 100,000 RMB for this type of surgery.

Transcatheter or Transapical Aortic Valve Implantation

One of the most advanced and innovative procedures available today is transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) or transapical valve implantation. This minimally invasive technique involves inserting a new valve through a catheter, which is especially beneficial for high-risk patients. Due to the advanced technology and expensive biological valves used, the total cost of this procedure is significantly higher, averaging around 300,000 RMB.

Conclusion

In summary, the cost of aortic valve surgery varies widely depending on the type of valve and the complexity of the procedure. Patients should carefully consider their options and consult with their medical team to determine the most suitable and cost-effective treatment plan based on their individual health condition and financial capacity.