Glenn Procedure in India: A Life-saving Solution for Children with CHD

Every year, millions of children around the world are born with congenital heart defects, a condition that can significantly impact their quality of life or even be life-threatening. For some of these children, the most severe cases require specialised surgical interventions to help them lead healthy lives. 

One such critical surgery is the Glenn Procedure treatment. This highly effective procedure plays a vital role in treating complex heart conditions in children, especially those with single-ventricle physiology.

With a growing reputation for world-class medical care, India has become a hub for medical tourism, offering affordable and cutting-edge treatments such as a Glenn Procedure. 

Over 5 million medical tourists visit India annually, with heart surgeries among the most sought-after treatments. The quality of care, combined with significantly lower treatment costs, makes India a top destination for families seeking heart surgery options. 

Glenn Procedure treatment in India has gained prominence due to the expertise of leading cardiac surgeons and the availability of state-of-the-art healthcare facilities.

What is a Glenn Procedure?

A Glenn Procedure is a critical heart surgery designed for children born with congenital heart defects that disrupt normal blood flow. It plays a key role in improving oxygen levels in the blood by redirecting blood flow to the lungs. This procedure is often used to treat severe conditions like Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), Tricuspid Atresia, and other single-ventricle heart defects.

This surgery is typically part of a three-stage treatment plan:

1. Norwood Procedure (performed shortly after birth)
2. Glenn's Procedure (performed between 4 to 6 months of age)
3. Fontan Procedure (done later in childhood)

Who Needs the Glenn Procedure?

The Glenn's Procedure treatment is recommended for children with specific congenital heart defects, such as:

1. Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS)

In this condition, the left side of the heart is underdeveloped, making it incapable of pumping blood effectively. The Glenn Procedure redirects blood flow to improve oxygenation.

2. Tricuspid Atresia

Here, the tricuspid valve is absent or malformed, obstructing blood flow between the right atrium and ventricle. The bidirectional Glenn surgery helps bypass this obstruction.

3. Single Ventricle Heart Defects

Children born with a single functional ventricle often need the unidirectional Glenn Procedure as part of their treatment plan.

4. Other Complex Heart Defects

Conditions that impair normal blood circulation may also benefit from this surgery.

Symptoms Indicating the Need for Glenn Procedure

Children who may require a Glenn Procedure treatment often exhibit symptoms such as:

• Bluish skin due to low oxygen levels (cyanosis)
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Poor weight gain and delayed growth
• Fatigue during feeding or activity

These symptoms indicate the heart's inability to circulate blood effectively, necessitating surgical intervention.

Preparing for the Glenn Procedure: What to Expect Before, During and After the Procedure?

Before the Procedure

Before undergoing the Glenn's Procedure treatment in India, doctors ensure the child's safety through:

• Comprehensive Diagnosis: Tests like echocardiograms and MRIs evaluate the heart's structure.
• Medical Records Review: Parents must provide detailed medical histories.
• Counselling: Families receive guidance on what to expect during and after the surgery.

During the Procedure

The Glenn surgery in India is conducted under general anaesthesia. The steps include:

• Incision: A small incision is made in the chest.
• Redirecting Blood Flow: The superior vena cava is detached from its original position and connected directly to the pulmonary arteries. The procedure typically takes about 3 to 4 hours.
• Monitoring: Surgeons monitor the child's condition to prevent complications.

After the Procedure

Post-surgery, children usually remain in the hospital for 7-10 days for close monitoring. During this period:

• Pain management for comfort
• Regular monitoring of heart function and oxygen levels
• Gradual transition from liquid to solid foods
• Restricted physical activity for a few weeks

Benefits of the Glenn Procedure

The Glenn Procedure treatment offers several advantages:

• Improves oxygenation levels in the blood
• Reduces the heart's workload
• Enhances the child's overall quality of life
• Serves as a crucial step in staged treatments for heart defects

Risks or Complications

Like any major surgery, the Glenn Procedure has potential risks, including:

• Blood clots or infections
• Fluid buildup around the heart or lungs
• Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)

However, with the best doctors for Glenn Procedure treatment in India, these risks are significantly reduced.

Success Rates and Long-term Outlook

The Glenn Procedure treatment in India has a success rate of 80% to 90%. Most children show significant improvements in oxygen levels and blood flow after the surgery. While additional procedures like the Fontan Procedure may be needed, many patients go on to lead active and healthy lives.

Cost of the Glenn Procedure in India

The Glenn Procedure treatment cost in India is significantly lower compared to countries like the US or UK. On average, the cost ranges from $4,000 to $6,000, depending on factors such as:

• Surgeon's fees
• Hospital stay
• Post-surgery care
• Diagnostic tests

This affordability, coupled with high-quality care, makes India an attractive destination for families.

Top Doctors for the Glenn Procedure in India

India is home to some of the best doctors for Glenn Procedure treatment in India. These doctors are trained internationally and have extensive experience in performing the Glenn Procedure. Some of the top surgeons include:

• Dr. Krishna S. Iyer, New Delhi, India: With over 46 years of experience, Dr. Iyer is the Director at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute. He has successfully performed more than 10,000 paediatric cardiac surgeries, including the Glenn Procedure. 
• Dr. Suresh Rao, Mumbai, India: With over 44 years of experience, Dr. Rao is the Director at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. He is renowned for his expertise in paediatric and congenital heart surgeries. 
• Dr. Robert Coelho, Chennai, India: Serving as the Director at MIOT International, Dr. Coelho has more than 25 years of experience and holds the record for performing numerous successful paediatric cardiac surgeries. 
• Dr. Rajat Kumar Gupta, Mohali, India: A Senior Consultant at Fortis Hospital, Dr. Gupta has over 15 years of experience in managing various congenital heart conditions in children. 

You can learn more about the best doctors for Glenn Procedure treatment in India.

Top Hospitals for the Glenn Procedure in India

India's healthcare sector is home to several renowned hospitals that specialise in complex paediatric heart surgeries like the Glenn Procedure. Some of the best hospitals for Glenn Procedure treatment in India include:

• Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, New Delhi
• Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi
• Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi NCR
• Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

Visit Vaidam's website for more details on the best hospitals for Glenn Procedure treatment in India.

How to Prepare for the Glenn Procedure in India

Preparing for the Glenn Procedure requires thorough planning and consultation with your healthcare team. Here's a helpful guide to get ready:

1. Medical Records:

• Bring reports of your child's heart condition, including diagnostic tests and imaging results.
• If any previous surgeries or treatments have been done, carry those records too.
• List any current medications, including dosage and frequency.

2. Referral Letter:

• Obtain a letter from your current doctor recommending the Glenn Procedure, summarising the child's condition and reasons for the surgery.

3. Passport and Visa:

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months. If needed, apply for a medical visa to India with supporting documents from the hospital.

4. Health Insurance Documents:

• If your insurance covers the procedure, make sure you have all the necessary details and confirmation for treatment in India.

Getting the Glenn Procedure Treatment in India is now easy!

The Glenn Procedure is a crucial step in the treatment of complex congenital heart defects. For families seeking affordable yet high-quality care, India offers a unique blend of experienced doctors, state-of-the-art hospitals, and cost-effective treatment options. 

Whether you’re considering the bidirectional or unidirectional Glenn Procedure in India, Vaidam is here to guide you. For more information, contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Glenn Procedure

1. What is the recovery time for the Glenn Procedure?

Recovery usually takes 4-6 weeks, and children can return to normal activities in 2-3 months.

2. What's the survival rate for a Glenn procedure?

The survival rate is more than 90%, especially for children with heart defects.

3. Is the Glenn Procedure a cure?

The Glenn Procedure is not a total cure but helps manage heart defects and may be followed by other surgeries.

4. Can adults undergo the Glenn Procedure?

Though it's mainly for children, some adults with certain heart conditions may also have the Glenn Procedure.

5. What is the difference between the Glenn Procedure and the Fontan Procedure?

The Glenn Procedure connects one vein to the lung arteries, while the Fontan Procedure connects both veins to the lung arteries.