Endovascular Coiling in India
Endovascular coiling is a minimally invasive treatment for brain aneurysms (weak, balloon-like spots on brain arteries). Instead of opening the skull, a specialist threads a thin tube through an artery in the groin or wrist to reach the aneurysm from the inside, then packs it with tiny platinum coils. This blocks blood flow into the bulge so it seals off and is far less likely to bleed. Coiling is used for both unruptured aneurysms and ruptured aneurysms causing subarachnoid hemorrhage. The choice between coiling and clipping depends on aneurysm shape, size, and location, your overall health, and the team’s experience.
Discover what this treats so that you can choose confidently
Coiling seals an aneurysm from the inside using soft platinum coils (and, when needed, balloons or stents). It’s effective for many unruptured and ruptured aneurysms. Deciding between coiling and clipping is individualized and based on imaging and center expertise.
Patient moment K, 49, had a small wide-neck aneurysm found during migraine workup. She underwent stent-assisted coiling in India, spent one night in ICU, walked the ward next day, and flew home after a week on antiplatelet tablets. “Once I understood the steps, fear gave way to focus.”
How the procedure works in simple steps
Think of the aneurysm like a small side pocket on a water pipe. Coiling gently fills the pocket from inside the pipe so that water can’t swirl in and expand it.
- Before the procedure — CT/MR angiography define size and location; a catheter angiogram may refine planning. Medicines (especially blood thinners) and heart/kidney status are reviewed. Wide-neck aneurysms may need balloon or a small stent.
- During the procedure — Under anesthesia or deep sedation, a catheter is guided from wrist or groin into the brain artery. Through a microcatheter, soft coils are placed until blood flow inside the aneurysm stops. Balloons or a stent may support placement. Final angiography confirms seal and normal flow.
- After the procedure — ICU monitoring of blood pressure and neuro status; CT to check for bleeding/stroke. Discharge typically in 2–4 days for unruptured cases. Follow-up imaging is scheduled because some aneurysms need touch-up coiling.
Grounding questions: Which option (coiling vs. clipping) gives a durable result for my aneurysm’s shape/location? How will the team prevent/treat spasm, clots, or pressure spikes afterward?
Who should consider this and when to wait
- Consider coiling when the aneurysm suits an endovascular route (many posterior circulation sites), the neck is narrow or can be supported, or in ruptured cases where minimally invasive therapy is safer/faster for your anatomy.
- Consider waiting or alternatives when a very small stable unruptured aneurysm has low risk (monitoring), surgical clipping offers a more durable seal for certain wide-neck MCA aneurysms, or medical issues need optimization before anesthesia/antiplatelets.
Ask yourself: Which route balances safety now and durability later? Which center shows outcomes for aneurysms like mine?
Benefits and risks that you should understand
Potential benefits
- No large head incision; typically shorter recovery
- Effective for many aneurysms, including hard-to-reach locations
- Balloon/stent options for challenging necks
- Life-saving in ruptured cases
Possible risks
- Stroke from clot or vessel injury
- Recanalization (partial reopening) that may need re-treatment
- Bleeding during/after procedure (rare with modern techniques)
- Contrast reaction or wrist/groin access issues
- Need for dual antiplatelets when a stent is used
Balanced view: No single method fits all. Anatomy, rupture status, and team experience drive results. High-volume centers with both surgical and endovascular options tailor the choice to you.
Cost overview without surprises
Prices vary with hospital category, device choice, aneurysm complexity, ICU needs, room class, and stay length. Devices (coils, balloons, stents) are major cost drivers. Illustrative USD ranges for self-pay international patients:
| Scenario | Illustrative cost range (USD) | Typical hospital stay |
|---|---|---|
| Simple coiling for unruptured narrow-neck aneurysm | 7000 – 11000 | 2 – 4 days |
| Balloon-assisted coiling | 8500 – 12500 | 3 – 5 days |
| Stent-assisted coiling (includes antiplatelet therapy) | 9500 – 15000 | 3 – 5 days |
| Coiling after subarachnoid hemorrhage with vasospasm monitoring | 10500 – 18500 | 7 – 10 days |
Simple math example
- Base package • Stent-assisted coiling: $10,200
- Two additional coils ($350 each): $700
- One extra ICU day: $400
- Estimated total: $11,300
Request a personalized quote listing inclusions (anesthesia, routine labs, imaging, coils & consumables, surgeon & cath lab fees) and exclusions (extra nights, take-home meds, unexpected ICU).
How to compare hospitals and specialists with confidence
Choosing a center is like selecting a mountain guide and gear — experience and the right equipment matter.
- Team volume and outcomes for coiling, balloon- and stent-assisted techniques
- 24×7 neurointervention, neurosurgery backup, and vasospasm management
- Modern biplane angiography suite and proven device portfolio
- Transparent packages with clear policies if the plan changes mid-procedure
- Structured follow-up imaging schedule
Which hospital explains risks and safeguards clearly? Which team offers both coiling and clipping so the choice fits your aneurysm?
Questions people often ask before this treatment
Is coiling better than clipping?
Neither is always better. The best option depends on anatomy, rupture status, age, and local expertise.
Will coils set off airport scanners or block MRI?
Platinum coils are MRI-compatible and don’t trigger airport detectors. Carry your summary.
Will I need medicines after stent-assisted coiling?
Yes. Dual antiplatelets for months, then a single agent as advised.
How soon can I fly home?
Unruptured cases often fly 5–7 days after the procedure once cleared. After a rupture, timing depends on vasospasm risk and recovery.
Will I need more treatment later?
Some aneurysms need touch-up coiling or surveillance. Your follow-up angiography/MRA schedule is set before discharge.
Recovery timeline so that planning feels easier
- Day 0 — Procedure and ICU observation
- Days 1–2 — BP control, headache care, early mobilization
- Days 2–4 — Discharge for most unruptured cases (longer after rupture for spasm monitoring)
- Weeks 2–4 — Gradual return to routines; avoid heavy lifting until cleared
Urgent call for: sudden severe headache, new weakness/speech trouble, vision changes, chest pain.
Video testimonials from real patients
You can watch success stories from international patients who underwent endovascular aneurysm treatment in India — recovery at home, follow-up imaging, and coordinated care.
https://www.youtube.com/@TreatmentCost
Medically reviewed by
Dr Aryan Malhotra
MBBS, David Tvildiani Medical University, Georgia
Radiation Oncology Resident, Burdwan Medical College and Hospital
Registration number: 95565
Dr Malhotra reviews pages so statements remain accurate, balanced, and patient-friendly with clear safety guidance and definitions.
References
Disclaimer
This page is for education only. Decisions must be made with a licensed specialist who has examined you and reviewed your scans and overall health.