Heart transplantation is a life-saving procedure that is becoming increasingly popular in Malaysia. It is an expensive surgery, which can concern many patients and their families. But that’s not the case in Malaysia. Malaysia offers heart transplantation surgery at lower rates than most other countries.
The number of heart transplants in Malaysia has gradually increased, with only one performed in 2010 compared to 13 in 2019. Malaysia is known for high survival after heart transplantation, with a one-year survival rate of 90% and a five-year survival rate of 80%.
This article will look at the cost of heart transplant surgery in Malaysia, which starts at USD 90,000, and the factors affecting it.
What is a Heart Transplant?
A heart transplant is a surgical procedure in which the patient’s diseased or damaged heart is replaced with a healthy heart from the donor. This surgery is recommended for patients with end-stage heart failure, in which the heart loses its ability to pump blood effectively.
The procedure is typically lengthy and can take several hours. It is done under general anesthesia. The patient’s diseased heart is removed, and the donor’s heart is carefully implanted. The new heart is then connected with the patient’s blood vessels and allowed to function normally.
Who Needs a Heart Transplant?
Some of the few reasons for heart transplants are:
- End-Stage Heart Failure
- Patients with severe coronary artery disease.
- Congenital Heart Defects
- Cardiomyopathy
- Valvular Heart Disease
It is important to note that not all patients with these conditions will require a heart transplant, as each case is different. The decision to undergo a heart transplant will depend on various factors, including the patient’s medical history, overall health, and prognosis.
Average Cost of Heart Transplant in Malaysia
The cost of a heart transplant in Malaysia depends on different factors, such as the type of hospital, the fees of the surgeon, and the type of procedure used for the transplant.
According to the Malaysian Ministry of Health, the average heart transplant cost in Malaysia ranges from USD 90,000 to USD 110,000.
It’s important to note that this price includes the hospital and surgeon’s fees, pre and post-operative care, medication charges, and rehabilitation costs.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Heart Transplants in Malaysia
Hospital and Surgeon Fees: The fees charged by hospitals and surgeons vary greatly depending on the institution and the surgeon’s level of expertise. In Malaysia, the average cost of heart transplant surgery ranges from USD 90,000 to USD 110,000.
Type of heart transplant procedures: Because of the complexity of the procedure, orthotopic heart transplants are more expensive than heterotopic transplants. In Malaysia, the average cost of orthotopic heart transplant surgery ranges from USD 144,000 to USD 216,000, while the cost of heterotopic heart transplant surgery ranges from USD 144,000 to USD 216,000.
Pre-Operative Care: Patients undergoing heart transplantation require extensive pre-transplant care, which includes diagnostic tests, imaging studies, and surgeon consultations. The cost of pre-operative care can range from USD 12,000 to USD 24,000 on average, depending on the patient’s medical needs.
Post-Operative Care: Patients require continuous medical care after the transplant, such as medication, rehabilitation, and follow-up visits with the transplant team. The post-operative care costs vary depending on the patient’s health and can range from USD 24,000 to USD 36,000.
Complications: Depending on the severity of the complications, the cost of treating them after a heart transplant can vary greatly. The risk of complications, however, can be reduced with careful pre and post-operative care.
How Much Time Does it Take to Recover After the Surgery?
The recovery time for a heart transplant surgery depends on the patient’s overall health and any complications that may arise during or after the surgery.
Patients are usually hospitalized for several weeks after surgery and receive extensive post-operative care and rehabilitation.
Patients can expect to be hospitalized for 2-4 weeks following surgery. They will be closely monitored by the medical team, who will evaluate the function of the new heart and ensure that the patient is stable and free of complications.
Patients will require continuous medical care and rehabilitation after being discharged from the hospital. The length of this post-transplant care varies, but it usually lasts several months.
Some of the Best Cardiac Surgeons in Malaysia
Dr. Kenneth Chin Kin Liat: Dr. Kenneth is a senior Cardiac Surgeon who has been practicing in Malaysia for more than four decades. He specializes in open heart surgery, heart transplant surgery, and surgery to remove blockages.
Dr. Kenny Cheng: With an experience of 15+ years, Dr. Kenny is a renowned Cardiac Surgeon in Malaysia. He has expertise in heart transplantation, coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, and pediatric congenital heart defects.
Dato Dr. Mohd Hamzah bin Kamarulzaman: Dr. Mohd Hamzah is an eminent Cardiothoracic Surgeon specializing in heart transplant surgery, coronary artery bypass surgery, atrial septal defect, and valve repair.
The bottom line is that a heart transplant is a complicated and costly medical procedure requiring significant expertise and care. The cost of a heart transplant in Malaysia is significantly low. It can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of hospital, the surgeon’s experience, and the patient’s condition.
