Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), commonly known as bypass surgery or open heart surgery, is one of the most frequently performed cardiac surgeries in India. For patients and families facing this diagnosis, the immediate question is often: "How much does bypass surgery cost in Delhi?"
The cost of bypass surgery in Delhi varies widely — from approximately Rs 1,50,000 at a government hospital to Rs 6 lakh or more at a private facility — depending on the hospital, surgeon, number of grafts, type of surgery (on-pump vs off-pump) and the patient's overall condition. This article provides a transparent, component-wise breakdown to help you plan ahead.
What Is Bypass Surgery (CABG)?
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG, pronounced "cabbage") is an open-heart surgical procedure used to treat severe blockages in the coronary arteries — the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. During the surgery, a cardiac surgeon takes a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body (usually the chest wall, leg or arm) and uses it to create a new pathway around the blocked artery. This "bypass graft" restores blood flow to the heart muscle.
Unlike angioplasty, which opens the blockage from inside using a balloon and stent, bypass surgery creates an entirely new route for blood to reach the heart. The procedure requires general anaesthesia, an incision through the breastbone (sternotomy), and typically takes 3 to 5 hours.
Patients may receive one to five grafts depending on the number and location of blockages. You will often hear terms like "double bypass," "triple bypass" or "quadruple bypass" — these refer to the number of arteries being bypassed.
When Is Bypass Surgery Recommended Over Angioplasty?
Bypass surgery is not the first-line treatment for all heart blockages. It is specifically recommended in certain clinical situations where it offers better long-term outcomes than angioplasty and stenting:
- Triple vessel disease (TVD): When all three major coronary arteries have significant blockages, bypass surgery provides more complete revascularisation and better long-term survival compared to multiple stents.
- Left main coronary artery disease: The left main artery supplies a large portion of the heart. Significant blockage here is a high-risk situation where CABG has been shown to improve survival.
- Diabetic patients with multi-vessel disease: Multiple clinical trials (including the landmark FREEDOM trial) have demonstrated that diabetic patients with two or more blocked arteries have better outcomes with bypass surgery than with stenting.
- Reduced heart pump function: Patients with low ejection fraction (weak heart muscle) and extensive blockages often benefit more from surgical revascularisation.
- Complex or diffuse blockages: Long, heavily calcified or diffusely diseased arteries that are not suitable for stenting are better treated with bypass grafts.
The decision between angioplasty and bypass surgery is made after reviewing the coronary angiography report, often discussed in a "Heart Team" meeting involving the interventional cardiologist and cardiac surgeon together. For a detailed comparison, read our guide on CABG bypass surgery vs angioplasty.
Bypass Surgery Cost Breakdown in Delhi (2026)
The total cost of CABG is the sum of multiple components. Here is what each part typically costs in Delhi NCR private hospitals in 2026:
| Cost Component | Approximate Range (Rs) |
|---|---|
| Surgeon & anaesthesia fees | 80,000 – 2,00,000 |
| Hospital & operation theatre charges | 1,00,000 – 3,00,000 |
| ICU stay (3–5 days) | 30,000 – 1,50,000 |
| Blood products & consumables | 20,000 – 50,000 |
| Medicines & investigations | 15,000 – 30,000 |
| Ward stay post-ICU (2–3 days) | 10,000 – 30,000 |
| Total (conventional CABG) | 2,50,000 – 6,00,000+ |
Note: These are indicative ranges for 2026 and may vary between hospitals. Costs can increase if the patient requires extended ICU care, develops post-operative complications, or needs additional procedures such as intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) support.
CABG Cost: Government vs Private Hospitals in Delhi
The choice of hospital has the single largest impact on the total cost of bypass surgery. Here is a realistic comparison for Delhi NCR in 2026:
| Hospital Type | Examples | Total CABG Cost (Rs) |
|---|---|---|
| Government hospitals | AIIMS, Safdarjung, GB Pant, RML | 50,000 – 1,50,000 |
| Charitable / trust hospitals | Sir Ganga Ram, LNJP | 1,00,000 – 2,50,000 |
| Private hospitals | Fortis, Max, Medanta, BLK, Escorts | 3,00,000 – 6,00,000+ |
Government hospitals like AIIMS and GB Pant Hospital offer bypass surgery at highly subsidised rates, with some categories of patients paying only for consumables. The surgical expertise at these centres is among the best in the country. However, waiting times for elective CABG can range from weeks to months due to high patient volumes. Private hospitals offer shorter waiting times and more comfortable amenities but at significantly higher costs.
On-Pump vs Off-Pump (Beating Heart) Surgery
Bypass surgery can be performed in two ways, and the technique used can influence the cost:
- On-pump CABG (conventional): The heart is temporarily stopped and a heart-lung machine (cardiopulmonary bypass) takes over the work of pumping blood and breathing. This gives the surgeon a still field to work on. The cost of the heart-lung machine circuit and perfusionist adds approximately Rs 30,000 to Rs 60,000 to the total bill.
- Off-pump CABG (OPCAB / beating heart surgery): The surgery is performed on the beating heart without using the heart-lung machine. Special stabilising devices hold the area of the heart being operated on steady. This technique avoids the costs and complications associated with cardiopulmonary bypass and may allow for a shorter ICU stay.
Off-pump surgery can be Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 less expensive than on-pump surgery, primarily because it eliminates the heart-lung machine consumables. However, the choice between on-pump and off-pump depends on the patient's anatomy, the number and location of grafts needed, and the surgeon's expertise — it is a clinical decision, not a cost decision.
Minimally Invasive Bypass Surgery (MIDCAB / TECAB)
In selected patients, bypass surgery can be performed through smaller incisions without opening the full breastbone:
- MIDCAB (Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass): A small incision (5–8 cm) is made between the ribs on the left side of the chest. This approach is typically used when only one or two arteries need grafting, most commonly the left anterior descending (LAD) artery.
- TECAB (Totally Endoscopic Coronary Artery Bypass): Performed entirely through small keyhole incisions using robotic assistance. This is the most advanced form of minimally invasive CABG and is available at only a few centres in Delhi.
Minimally invasive CABG costs between Rs 4,00,000 and Rs 8,00,000 — higher than conventional CABG due to specialised equipment, robotic system fees and longer operating times. The benefit is faster recovery, less pain, smaller scars and a shorter hospital stay (typically 3–4 days vs 5–7 days).
Not every patient is a candidate for minimally invasive bypass surgery. The decision depends on the number and location of blockages, previous chest surgeries, body build and the availability of the technique at the chosen hospital.
Insurance and Government Scheme Coverage for CABG
Bypass surgery is covered under most health insurance policies and several government health schemes. This can substantially reduce the financial burden on patients and families.
Health Insurance
Most major health insurance providers cover CABG as a listed cardiac surgical procedure. Key points to confirm with your insurer before admission:
- Pre-authorisation is mandatory: CABG is a major surgery and virtually all insurers require prior approval. Submit the angiography report, surgeon's recommendation and estimated cost to start the process.
- Pre-existing condition waiting period: If coronary artery disease is diagnosed after taking the policy, most insurers have a 2–4 year waiting period for pre-existing conditions. Check your policy terms carefully.
- Room rent sub-limits: Many policies cap the daily room rent. Since CABG involves 3–5 days of ICU stay, room rent sub-limits can significantly affect coverage. Proportionate deductions may apply.
- Network hospital: Choosing a hospital on your insurer's network list enables cashless treatment. The insurer settles the bill directly, and you pay only the non-covered portion.
Government Schemes
Ayushman Bharat (PMJAY)
CABG is covered under Ayushman Bharat at empanelled hospitals. The package rate for bypass surgery is approximately Rs 1,70,000 (varies slightly by number of grafts), covering surgery, ICU stay, ward stay and 15 days of post-discharge medication. Available to eligible families identified through SECC data. Patients should carry their Ayushman Bharat card and Aadhaar to the hospital.
CGHS
Central Government Health Scheme covers CABG 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 and a referral from the CGHS dispensary are required for elective bypass surgery.
ECHS
Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme provides coverage for retired defence personnel and their dependents. CABG is covered at ECHS-empanelled hospitals, subject to referral and approval from the polyclinic. The scheme covers the full cost of the procedure within its approved package rates.
Recovery Timeline After Bypass Surgery
Recovery from CABG is longer than from angioplasty because the chest bone (sternum) needs time to heal. Here is what to expect:
- ICU stay (3–5 days): After surgery, patients are monitored in the intensive care unit. The breathing tube is usually removed within 6 to 12 hours. Chest drains are removed within 1–2 days.
- Ward stay (2–3 days): Once stable, patients are shifted to a regular ward where they begin walking short distances and starting breathing exercises.
- Hospital discharge (5–7 days total): Most patients are discharged within a week if there are no complications.
- Home recovery (4–6 weeks): Light activities can be resumed gradually. Driving, lifting heavy objects and returning to work typically take 6 to 8 weeks.
- Full recovery (6–8 weeks): The sternum takes about 6 to 8 weeks to heal fully. Cardiac rehabilitation, including supervised exercise and dietary guidance, significantly improves recovery outcomes.
Important: Do not lift anything heavier than 2–3 kg for the first 6 weeks after surgery. Avoid driving for at least 4 weeks. Follow up with your cardiologist at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months after discharge. Take all prescribed medications regularly — do not stop blood thinners, statins or heart medications without consulting your doctor.
Post-Surgery Medication and Follow-Up Costs
The cost of bypass surgery does not end at discharge. Patients should budget for ongoing medications and follow-up care:
- Cardiac medications: Blood thinners (aspirin, clopidogrel), statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs), beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors and other heart medications. Monthly cost: Rs 1,500 to Rs 4,000 depending on the combination.
- Cardiac rehabilitation: A structured programme of supervised exercise, dietary counselling and lifestyle modification. Cost varies from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000 for a complete programme.
- Follow-up consultations: At 1 week, 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), ECG and echocardiography. Annual follow-up testing costs approximately Rs 3,000 to Rs 8,000.
Lifelong medication compliance is essential after bypass surgery. The grafts can develop blockages over time if risk factors like high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking are not controlled. Regular follow-up with your cardiologist helps detect and manage any issues early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bypass surgery covered under Ayushman Bharat (PMJAY)?
Yes. CABG is covered under Ayushman Bharat at empanelled hospitals. The package rate is approximately Rs 1,70,000, covering the surgery, ICU stay, ward stay and 15 days of post-discharge medication at zero out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients. You need your Ayushman Bharat card and Aadhaar for verification at the hospital.
How long does it take to recover from bypass surgery?
Most patients are discharged from the hospital within 5 to 7 days after bypass surgery. Light daily activities can be resumed within 2 to 3 weeks. Driving, returning to work and lifting heavy objects typically take 6 to 8 weeks. The sternum (breastbone) takes about 6 to 8 weeks to heal completely. Cardiac rehabilitation during recovery significantly improves outcomes.
Is off-pump (beating heart) bypass surgery cheaper than on-pump surgery?
Off-pump surgery can be Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 less expensive because it eliminates the cost of the heart-lung machine circuit and perfusionist. However, the choice between on-pump and off-pump is based on clinical factors — the number and location of blockages, the patient's overall health and the surgeon's expertise — not on cost alone.
Does health insurance cover the full cost of bypass surgery?
Most health insurance policies cover bypass surgery, but the extent of coverage depends on your sum insured, room rent sub-limits and whether the hospital is on the insurer's network. Pre-authorisation is mandatory. Policies with room rent sub-limits may apply proportionate deductions, leaving some out-of-pocket cost. Always confirm the exact coverage with your insurer before admission.
What is the difference between bypass surgery and angioplasty?
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure where a stent is placed inside the blocked artery to open it from within. Bypass surgery is an open-heart operation where a new blood vessel is grafted to create a detour around the blockage. Angioplasty requires 1–2 days in hospital; bypass surgery requires 5–7 days. Bypass surgery is preferred for patients with triple vessel disease, left main disease, or diabetes with multi-vessel blockages. For a detailed comparison, see our article on CABG bypass surgery vs angioplasty.
The Bottom Line
Bypass surgery cost in Delhi ranges from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,50,000 at government hospitals and Rs 3 lakh to Rs 6 lakh at private facilities in 2026. Minimally invasive CABG techniques cost Rs 4 to Rs 8 lakh. The total cost depends on the hospital, surgeon, type of surgery (on-pump vs off-pump), number of grafts and the patient's post-operative course.
Health insurance coverage, Ayushman Bharat (PMJAY), CGHS and ECHS can significantly reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket expenses. If you or a family member has been advised bypass surgery, start the insurance pre-authorisation process early and ask the hospital for a detailed cost estimate based on your specific condition.
The most important step is to consult an experienced cardiologist who can review your angiography report, explain whether bypass surgery or angioplasty is the better option for you, and connect you with a trusted cardiac surgeon.
Related reading
About Dr. Abhinav Aggarwal
Dr Abhinav Aggarwal is an Interventional Cardiologist practising at CardioSight Clinic, Rohini, Delhi. He works closely with cardiac surgeons at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, to provide comprehensive treatment for patients with coronary artery disease, including guidance on whether angioplasty or bypass surgery is the right choice.
If you need a review of your angiography report, a second opinion on whether bypass surgery is necessary, or a cost estimate for your specific condition, 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 and cardiac surgeon.