Craniotomy is a widely used neurosurgical procedure for the treatment of brain tumours. With the rising global demand for high-quality yet affordable medical care, India has become a preferred destination for patients seeking effective brain tumour treatment. This article explores the role of craniotomy in brain tumour management, its benefits, the procedure, and most importantly, the craniotomy cost in India.
What is Craniotomy?
A craniotomy is a surgical procedure where a part of the skull (called a bone flap) is removed to access the brain. This method allows neurosurgeons to remove tumours, relieve brain pressure, or address vascular abnormalities. Once the procedure is complete, the bone flap is replaced and secured using plates and screws.
When it comes to treating brain tumours—whether benign or malignant—craniotomy is often the preferred surgical option due to its effectiveness and precision.
Why is Craniotomy Used for Brain Tumour Treatment?
Brain tumours can be life-threatening if they grow and compress surrounding brain structures. A craniotomy allows surgeons to:
- Remove as much of the tumour as safely possible
- Obtain a biopsy for diagnosis
- Relieve pressure on the brain
- Improve symptoms such as headaches, seizures, or weakness
For many patients, craniotomy offers the best chance of long-term survival and improved quality of life.
Types of Brain Tumours Treated with Craniotomy
Craniotomy is commonly used to treat both primary and secondary (metastatic) brain tumours. Types include:
- Gliomas (including glioblastoma)
- Meningiomas
- Pituitary tumours
- Acoustic neuromas
- Metastatic tumours
- Ependymomas
- Medulloblastomas
The surgical approach depends on the location, size, and type of the tumour. In India, top-tier hospitals provide access to advanced tools such as neuronavigation, intraoperative MRI, and awake craniotomy to improve outcomes.
Craniotomy Cost in India – A Major Advantage
One of the biggest reasons patients choose India for neurosurgery is the affordable craniotomy cost in India. Despite the use of advanced technologies and highly skilled neurosurgeons, the cost remains a fraction of what it is in Western countries.
✅ Average Craniotomy Cost in India (2025):
| Type of Procedure | Cost in INR | Cost in USD (approx.) |
| Basic Craniotomy | ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,50,000 | $1,800 – $3,000 |
| Tumour Resection (Standard) | ₹2,50,000 – ₹4,50,000 | $3,000 – $5,500 |
| Complex Brain Tumour Surgery | ₹5,00,000 – ₹7,50,000 | $6,000 – $9,000 |
Even the most advanced procedures, when compared globally, reflect just how economical the craniotomy cost in India really is.
What Influences Craniotomy Cost in India?
While India is known for cost-effective care, the final craniotomy cost in India can vary based on several key factors:
1. Complexity of the Case
Removing a superficial benign tumour is usually less expensive than treating deep-seated or aggressive malignant tumours, which may require longer surgical time, neuro-monitoring, or intraoperative imaging.
2. City and Hospital Choice
Hospitals in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru may charge slightly more due to their advanced infrastructure and demand. On the other hand, hospitals in cities like Ahmedabad, Pune, or Kochi offer competitive prices with quality care.
3. Surgeon’s Experience
Highly experienced neurosurgeons who specialize in tumour resection may have higher consultation and surgical fees. However, their expertise can significantly reduce surgical risk and recovery time.
4. Type of Room Selected
Patients can choose between general wards, semi-private, or deluxe suites. This affects the craniotomy cost in India during hospitalization.
5. Post-operative Care and Recovery
Longer ICU stays, complications, or need for rehabilitation can add to the overall cost.
Inclusions in Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India
Reputed hospitals offer package-based pricing. A typical craniotomy package in India usually includes:
- Pre-operative diagnostic tests (MRI, CT, blood tests)
- Neurosurgeon and anesthetist fees
- Operation theatre charges
- Skull fixation materials and surgical consumables
- ICU and hospital stay
- Medications during hospitalization
- Nursing and post-operative care
- Physiotherapy sessions, if needed
- Follow-up consultations (initial visits)
This transparency in pricing helps patients better understand and manage the craniotomy cost in India.
Step-by-Step Overview of the Procedure
1. Pre-operative Evaluation
The patient undergoes detailed imaging and lab tests to plan the surgery. A treatment plan is created by a multidisciplinary team.
2. Surgery
Under general or local anesthesia, the neurosurgeon performs the craniotomy, removes the tumour, and replaces the bone flap.
3. Post-operative Care
After surgery, patients are closely monitored in the ICU before being moved to a general ward. Recovery usually takes 7–10 days in the hospital.
4. Rehabilitation
Depending on tumour location, patients may need speech therapy, physiotherapy, or occupational therapy.
Craniotomy Success Rate in India
Thanks to the use of cutting-edge tools and highly trained neurosurgeons, the success rate of craniotomy in India is comparable to international benchmarks. For benign tumours, success rates can exceed 90%. For malignant tumours, outcomes depend on early diagnosis and treatment aggressiveness.
Hospitals also report low complication rates, especially when surgeries are performed at specialized neurosurgical centers.
Comparing Craniotomy Cost: India vs. Global Averages
| Country | Average Cost (USD) |
| United States | $50,000 – $100,000+ |
| United Kingdom | £25,000 – £50,000 |
| Australia | AUD 40,000 – AUD 70,000 |
| India | $2,500 – $9,000 |
These comparisons show the clear advantage of the craniotomy cost in India, especially for patients without insurance or those seeking private care abroad.
Top Hospitals in India for Brain Tumour Surgery
Some of the best hospitals for craniotomy in India include:
- AIIMS, Delhi – Renowned public hospital with affordable care.
- Apollo Hospitals (Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad) – Known for advanced neurosurgical technology.
- Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
- Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon
- Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai – Leading cancer and brain tumour center.
- Narayana Health, Bengaluru
These hospitals are equipped with advanced imaging tools, dedicated neurosurgical teams, and facilities for international patients.
Craniotomy Cost in India for International Patients
India is a global hub for medical tourism, and international patients benefit from:
- Low surgery costs
- English-speaking medical teams
- Internationally accredited hospitals
- Visa and travel assistance
- Personalized care coordinators
All-inclusive packages for brain tumour craniotomy surgery in India typically range between $4,000 – $9,000, depending on the hospital and condition severity.
Health Insurance and Financial Assistance
Most Indian health insurance policies cover craniotomy surgery under major illness or surgical benefits. If you’re an Indian resident:
- Check for cashless options at network hospitals.
- State health schemes like Ayushman Bharat may cover the surgery at select hospitals.
International patients should verify whether their home insurance covers procedures abroad.
Hospitals may also offer:
- EMI/payment plans
- Discounts for self-pay patients
- Charity or trust-based aid for low-income patients
These options help further reduce the craniotomy cost in India.
Tips to Save on Craniotomy Surgery in India
- Get second opinions to confirm the diagnosis and avoid unnecessary tests.
- Compare hospital packages across cities.
- Choose hospitals in Tier-2 cities for lower accommodation and procedure charges.
- Use medical travel companies for complete assistance.
Final Thoughts
Craniotomy remains the gold standard for surgical treatment of brain tumours. With modern techniques and high-end neurosurgical infrastructure, India provides patients with an unmatched combination of quality and affordability.
The craniotomy cost in India is up to 80% lower than in many developed countries, making it the ideal destination for both Indian and international patients seeking timely, expert care.
for more (click here)