Angioplasty is one of the most common cardiac procedures performed in India, and Delhi is home to some of the country's leading cardiac centres. Yet one of the first questions patients and families ask after hearing they need angioplasty is: "How much will it cost?"
The cost of angioplasty in Delhi can vary significantly — from approximately Rs 1.5 lakh in a government hospital to Rs 5–7 lakh in a private facility — depending on the type and number of stents, the hospital, ICU stay and the patient's clinical condition. This article offers a transparent breakdown to help you plan ahead.
What Is Angioplasty?
Angioplasty, formally known as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. A thin catheter is inserted through the wrist or groin, guided to the blocked artery, and a small balloon is inflated to widen the vessel. In most cases, a stent — a tiny metal scaffold — is placed to keep the artery open long term.
The procedure does not require open-heart surgery, and most patients are discharged within 24 to 48 hours. For a detailed explanation of how the procedure works, see our guide on angioplasty and stenting for blocked heart arteries.
Angioplasty Cost Breakdown in Delhi
The total cost of angioplasty is not a single number. It is the sum of several components, each of which can vary depending on the hospital and the patient's condition:
| Cost Component | Approximate Range (Rs) |
|---|---|
| Hospital room & procedure charges | 40,000 – 1,20,000 |
| Coronary stent (per stent) | 20,000 – 55,000 |
| Catheterisation lab & consumables | 30,000 – 80,000 |
| Surgeon & anaesthesia fees | 25,000 – 60,000 |
| ICU / CCU stay (1–2 days) | 10,000 – 40,000 |
| Medicines & diagnostics | 8,000 – 20,000 |
| Total (single-vessel, one stent) | 1,50,000 – 3,50,000 |
Note: These are indicative ranges for 2026 and may vary between hospitals. Stent prices are regulated by NPPA (National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority), which caps prices for drug-eluting stents used in India.
Angioplasty Cost: Government vs Private Hospitals in Delhi
Where you get the procedure done has the single largest impact on cost. Here is a realistic comparison for Delhi NCR in 2026:
| Procedure | Govt Hospital (AIIMS, Safdarjung, RML, GTB) | Private Hospital (Fortis, Max, Medanta, BLK) |
|---|---|---|
| Single-vessel angioplasty (1 stent) | Rs 1,50,000 – 2,50,000 | Rs 2,50,000 – 4,50,000 |
| Double-vessel angioplasty (2 stents) | Rs 2,00,000 – 3,50,000 | Rs 3,50,000 – 5,50,000 |
| Multi-vessel / complex angioplasty (3+ stents) | Rs 2,50,000 – 4,00,000 | Rs 4,50,000 – 7,00,000 |
| Emergency angioplasty (primary PCI for heart attack) | Rs 1,80,000 – 3,00,000 | Rs 3,00,000 – 5,50,000 |
Important: During a heart attack, the priority is reaching the nearest hospital with a cardiac catheterisation lab as quickly as possible. Do not delay treatment to compare costs. If you or a family member experience heart attack warning signs, call for emergency help immediately.
Types of Stents and Their Cost
The stent is a key cost variable. The Government of India has capped coronary stent prices, but costs still differ by type. Here are the three main categories:
| Stent Type | Price per Stent (Rs) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Bare Metal Stent (BMS) | 8,000 – 15,000 | Basic metal scaffold; higher restenosis rate; rarely used today |
| Drug-Eluting Stent (DES) | 20,000 – 35,000 | Releases medication to prevent re-narrowing; the current standard |
| Bio-absorbable Stent (BRS) | 40,000 – 55,000 | Dissolves over time; selected cases only; not widely used |
Drug-eluting stents (DES) are the most commonly used stents in contemporary practice. They release a slow dose of medication that significantly reduces the risk of re-narrowing (restenosis) compared to bare metal stents. Bare metal stents are rarely used now except in specific clinical situations.
Bio-absorbable stents were developed with the idea of a scaffold that dissolves after the artery heals. However, current evidence has shown mixed long-term results, and they are not widely used in routine practice. The choice of stent is made by the interventional cardiologist based on the patient's anatomy and clinical situation.
Factors That Affect the Total Cost
Several variables determine the final hospital bill:
- Number of blockages: Single-vessel angioplasty costs less than multi-vessel procedures. Each additional stent adds Rs 20,000 to Rs 35,000 to the bill.
- Type of stent: Drug-eluting stents are the standard and cost more than bare metal stents. The specific brand and generation of the stent can also influence cost slightly.
- Hospital type: Government hospitals like AIIMS, Safdarjung and GTB have subsidised rates. Private hospitals charge higher facility fees but may offer shorter waiting times.
- Room category: General ward, semi-private or private room — the room choice impacts hospital charges substantially.
- Complexity of the blockage: Calcified arteries, bifurcation lesions or chronic total occlusions may require additional equipment (such as IVUS, OCT, rotational atherectomy), which increases the cost.
- Length of hospital stay: Routine cases require 1–2 days. Complicated cases or those with comorbidities may need a longer ICU stay.
- Emergency vs elective: Emergency angioplasty during a heart attack may carry higher charges due to the urgency and resources involved.
It is advisable to ask the hospital for a detailed cost estimate before the procedure, especially if you are paying out of pocket. Many hospitals provide a package rate that covers most components.
Insurance and Government Scheme Coverage
Angioplasty is covered under most health insurance policies and several government health schemes. Understanding your coverage can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Health Insurance
Most major health insurance providers cover angioplasty and stenting under their cardiac treatment category. Key points to confirm with your insurer:
- Whether your policy covers pre-existing cardiac conditions (many have a waiting period of 2–4 years for pre-existing conditions).
- Whether the hospital is on the insurer's network for cashless treatment.
- Sub-limits on room rent, implant costs or procedure charges.
- Whether the specific stent type is covered under the policy's implant category.
Government Schemes
Ayushman Bharat (PMJAY)
Covers angioplasty up to Rs 1,70,000 (single stent) in empanelled hospitals. Available to eligible families identified through SECC data. Both government and many private hospitals in Delhi accept Ayushman Bharat cards.
CGHS
Central Government Health Scheme covers angioplasty for serving and retired central government employees and their dependents. Treatment is available at CGHS-empanelled hospitals at prescribed rates. Prior approval from the department is typically required for elective procedures.
ECHS
Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme provides coverage for retired defence personnel and their dependents. Angioplasty is covered at ECHS-empanelled hospitals, subject to referral and approval from the polyclinic.
Recovery Timeline and Follow-Up Costs
The cost of angioplasty does not end at discharge. Patients should budget for ongoing medications and follow-up care:
- Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT): Aspirin plus a second blood thinner (such as clopidogrel, prasugrel or ticagrelor) are typically prescribed for 6 to 12 months after stenting. Monthly cost: Rs 500 – Rs 2,000 depending on the specific combination.
- Statins and other cardiac medications: Cholesterol-lowering drugs, blood pressure medications and other prescriptions may cost Rs 800 – Rs 2,500 per month.
- Follow-up consultations: Typically at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and then annually. Consultation fees range from Rs 500 to Rs 1,500 per visit.
- Follow-up tests: Periodic blood tests (lipid profile, blood sugar, kidney function) and an echocardiogram may be advised. Annual follow-up testing costs approximately Rs 2,000 – Rs 5,000.
Do not stop medicines to save costs. Dual antiplatelet therapy after stenting is essential to prevent stent thrombosis, a potentially life-threatening complication. Always consult your cardiologist before changing or stopping any medication.
How to Reduce Angioplasty Cost Without Compromising Quality
- Check insurance coverage early: Confirm your policy details and get pre-authorisation before admission. Cashless treatment at a network hospital can save significant out-of-pocket expense.
- Choose a general or semi-private ward: The procedure and medical care are identical regardless of room category. Opting for a general ward can reduce the bill by Rs 30,000 to Rs 80,000.
- Government hospital option: Facilities like AIIMS, Safdarjung, RML and GTB Hospital have experienced interventional cardiologists and offer angioplasty at subsidised rates.
- Ask about package pricing: Many private hospitals offer all-inclusive angioplasty packages that can be more predictable than itemised billing.
- Use generic medications where appropriate: Generic versions of cardiac medicines are equally effective and significantly cheaper. Discuss this option with your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is angioplasty covered under Ayushman Bharat?
Yes. Angioplasty with stenting is covered under Ayushman Bharat (PMJAY) at empanelled hospitals. The scheme covers up to approximately Rs 1,70,000 for a single-stent procedure. Eligible patients should carry their Ayushman Bharat card and Aadhaar to the hospital.
How much does a stent cost in Delhi after the government price cap?
The NPPA has capped drug-eluting stent prices at approximately Rs 30,000–35,000. Bare metal stents are priced lower. Hospitals cannot charge above the ceiling price for the stent itself, though overall procedure costs include other components such as hospital charges, surgeon fees, and consumables.
Can I get cashless angioplasty at a private hospital?
Yes, if the hospital is on your insurer's network list. You need to get pre-authorisation from your insurance company (most hospitals have a TPA desk that handles this). Cashless treatment means the insurer settles the bill directly with the hospital, and you pay only the non-covered portion, if any.
Does the number of stents affect the total cost significantly?
Yes. Each additional drug-eluting stent adds approximately Rs 20,000 to Rs 35,000 to the bill. Multi-vessel procedures also take longer and may require a longer ICU stay, further increasing the total cost. The number of stents is determined by the number and severity of blockages, not by preference.
What are the ongoing medicine costs after angioplasty?
Patients typically need dual antiplatelet therapy (blood thinners), statins, and other cardiac medications for several months to years after stenting. Monthly medication costs range from Rs 1,500 to Rs 4,000 depending on the drugs prescribed. These should never be stopped without consulting your cardiologist.
The Bottom Line
Angioplasty cost in Delhi ranges from Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 7 lakh depending on the number of blockages, type of stent, hospital and room category. While cost is a legitimate concern, it should not delay life-saving treatment. Government price caps on stents, health insurance coverage and schemes like Ayushman Bharat, CGHS and ECHS have made angioplasty more accessible than ever before.
The most important step is to consult an experienced interventional cardiologist who can explain your reports, discuss your options, and provide a clear cost estimate based on your specific condition.
Related reading
About Dr. Abhinav Aggarwal
Dr Abhinav Aggarwal is an Interventional Cardiologist practising at CardioSight Clinic, Rohini, Delhi. He performs angioplasty and coronary stenting at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, and provides comprehensive care for patients with coronary artery disease.
If you need clarity on whether angioplasty is required, a cost estimate for your specific condition, or a second opinion on your angiography report, a consultation can help you understand your options and plan ahead.
Book an Appointment arrow_forwardThis article is intended for general patient education and does not replace a professional medical consultation. The costs mentioned are approximate ranges for Delhi NCR in 2026 and may vary between hospitals and individual cases. Please discuss your reports, treatment options and specific cost estimate with your cardiologist.