CGHS Rates for Cranial & Vascular Neurosurgery

Cranial and vascular neurosurgery encompasses a highly specialized set of procedures aimed at treating conditions affecting the brain, skull, and the blood vessels that supply them. These surgeries address a wide range of issues, from traumatic injuries and pressure buildup to congenital malformations, tumours, and movement disorders.

For beneficiaries of the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), accessing these critical treatments is made possible through a network of empanelled hospitals. This guide provides detailed information on the approved package rates for various neurosurgical procedures, helping patients and their families understand the financial aspects of their care.

The rates listed are determined by the CGHS and differ based on whether the procedure is performed at a NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers) accredited hospital or a non-NABH accredited facility. All rates are based on the CGHS Office Memorandum F.No.5-16/CGHS(HQ)/HEC/2024(PartI) dated 03.10.2025, effective from 13.10.2025.

CGHS Cranial & Vascular Neurosurgery Rates (effective 13 October 2025)

• Twist Drill Craniostomy, Non-NABH — Rs 36,550
• Twist Drill Craniostomy, NABH — Rs 43,000
• Twist Drill Craniostomy, Super Speciality — Rs 49,450
• Subdural Tapping, Non-NABH — Rs 11,390
• Subdural Tapping, NABH — Rs 13,400
• Subdural Tapping, Super Speciality — Rs 15,410
• Ventricular Tapping, Non-NABH — Rs 29,750
• Ventricular Tapping, NABH — Rs 35,000
• Ventricular Tapping, Super Speciality — Rs 40,250
• Brain Abscess Tapping, Non-NABH — Rs 23,375
• Brain Abscess Tapping, NABH — Rs 27,500
• Brain Abscess Tapping, Super Speciality — Rs 31,625
• Placement of Intracranial pressure (ICP) Monitor, Non-NABH — Rs 23,375
• Placement of Intracranial pressure (ICP) Monitor, NABH — Rs 27,500
• Placement of Intracranial pressure (ICP) Monitor, Super Speciality — Rs 31,625
• Skull Traction Application, Non-NABH — Rs 7,820
• Skull Traction Application, NABH — Rs 9,200
• Skull Traction Application, Super Speciality — Rs 10,580
• Vascular Malformations, Non-NABH — Rs 82,450
• Vascular Malformations, NABH — Rs 97,000
• Vascular Malformations, Super Speciality — Rs 1,11,550
• Meningoencephalocele excision and repair, Non-NABH — Rs 64,600
• Meningoencephalocele excision and repair, NABH — Rs 76,000
• Meningoencephalocele excision and repair, Super Speciality — Rs 87,400
• CSF Rhinorrhoea Repair, Non-NABH — Rs 53,550
• CSF Rhinorrhoea Repair, NABH — Rs 63,000
• CSF Rhinorrhoea Repair, Super Speciality — Rs 72,450
• Stereotaxic Procedures- biopsy/aspiration of cyst, Non-NABH — Rs 36,550
• Stereotaxic Procedures- biopsy/aspiration of cyst, NABH — Rs 43,000
• Stereotaxic Procedures- biopsy/aspiration of cyst, Super Speciality — Rs 49,450
• Endoscopic aqueductoplasty, Non-NABH — Rs 45,050
• Endoscopic aqueductoplasty, NABH — Rs 53,000
• Endoscopic aqueductoplasty, Super Speciality — Rs 60,950
• Facial nerve reconstruction, Non-NABH — Rs 64,600
• Facial nerve reconstruction, NABH — Rs 76,000
• Facial nerve reconstruction, Super Speciality — Rs 87,400
• Endoscopic CSF rhinorrhoea repair, Non-NABH — Rs 45,050
• Endoscopic CSF rhinorrhoea repair, NABH — Rs 53,000
• Endoscopic CSF rhinorrhoea repair, Super Speciality — Rs 60,950
• Extracranial-Intracranial Bypass Procedures (EC-IC) bypass procedures Image Guided Craniotomy, Non-NABH — Rs 69,700
• Extracranial-Intracranial Bypass Procedures (EC-IC) bypass procedures Image Guided Craniotomy, NABH — Rs 82,000
• Extracranial-Intracranial Bypass Procedures (EC-IC) bypass procedures Image Guided Craniotomy, Super Speciality — Rs 94,300
• Endoscopic cranial surgery/Biopsy/aspiration, Non-NABH — Rs 53,550
• Endoscopic cranial surgery/Biopsy/aspiration, NABH — Rs 63,000
• Endoscopic cranial surgery/Biopsy/aspiration, Super Speciality — Rs 72,450
• Endoscopic aspiration of intracerebellar haematoma, Non-NABH — Rs 64,600
• Endoscopic aspiration of intracerebellar haematoma, NABH — Rs 76,000
• Endoscopic aspiration of intracerebellar haematoma, Super Speciality — Rs 87,400
• Lesioning procedures for Parkinson’s disease,Dystonia etc, Non-NABH — Rs 45,050
• Lesioning procedures for Parkinson’s disease,Dystonia etc, NABH — Rs 53,000
• Lesioning procedures for Parkinson’s disease,Dystonia etc, Super Speciality — Rs 60,950

Rates shown are as per the CGHS approved package rates (Office Memorandum F.No.5-16/CGHS(HQ)/HEC/2024(PartI) dated 03.10.2025, effective 2025-10-13) (2025 (effective 13.10.2025)) and are subject to periodic revision. Always verify the latest approved rates on the official source.

Who This Covers

This information is for CGHS beneficiaries who have been medically advised to undergo specific cranial or vascular neurosurgical interventions. It applies to patients requiring treatment for conditions that can be addressed by the procedures listed under the CGHS framework.

The procedures covered on this page include: Twist Drill Craniostomy; Subdural, Ventricular, or Brain Abscess Tapping; Placement of an Intracranial Pressure (ICP) Monitor; Skull Traction Application; surgical treatment for Vascular Malformations; Meningoencephalocele excision and repair; CSF Rhinorrhoea Repair (both open and endoscopic); Stereotaxic procedures like biopsy or cyst aspiration; Endoscopic procedures such as aqueductoplasty, cranial surgery, and aspiration of intracerebellar haematoma; Facial nerve reconstruction; Extracranial-Intracranial (EC-IC) bypass surgery; Image Guided Craniotomy; and Lesioning procedures for conditions like Parkinson’s disease and Dystonia.

What CGHS Covers vs. What You Pay Separately

The CGHS package rate is comprehensive and generally includes the cost of the main surgery, anaesthesia, operating room charges, and a specified duration of hospital stay in the ward you are entitled to. It also covers routine drugs, consumables, and nursing care associated with the procedure.

However, it is important to understand that certain high-cost consumables or specialized implants may not be part of the package rate. Items such as specific types of shunts, coils for vascular malformations, bone cement, or particular medications might be billed separately. The cost of these items is often based on the actual Maximum Retail Price (MRP).

Beneficiaries are strongly advised to have a detailed discussion with the hospital's billing department before admission. Request a clear estimate that distinguishes between the costs covered by the CGHS package and any additional items that will be billed to you directly.

How to Use This at a CGHS-Empanelled Hospital

To avail the benefits for a neurosurgical procedure, first obtain a valid referral from your CGHS Wellness Centre or a government hospital specialist. This referral must clearly state the diagnosis and the recommended procedure.

At your chosen CGHS-empanelled hospital, present your CGHS card along with the specialist's referral. The hospital's CGHS desk will use this documentation to initiate the pre-authorization process.

Confirm that the procedure code and description for which the hospital is seeking approval match the surgery you are scheduled to undergo. This ensures correct billing and avoids future discrepancies.

The final amount billed to CGHS will depend on the hospital's accreditation status. NABH-accredited hospitals are eligible for a higher rate than non-NABH facilities. This rate is fixed and not dependent on patient choice. The hospital will handle the direct billing to CGHS for the approved package amount.

You will be responsible for paying for any services or items not covered under the CGHS package rate. Settle these payments directly with the hospital before discharge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral from a CGHS doctor for these neurosurgery procedures?

Yes, a valid referral from a CGHS Wellness Centre or a specialist at a government hospital is mandatory to avail treatment at a CGHS-empanelled private hospital for any of these neurosurgical procedures.

What is the difference between NABH and non-NABH hospital rates?

NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers) is a quality certification. Hospitals with this accreditation are permitted to charge a slightly higher package rate as approved by CGHS, reflecting their adherence to certain quality and safety standards. The rate you get depends on the hospital's status, not your preference.

Are costs for implants like shunts or coils for aneurysm included in the CGHS package?

Often, high-value implants, stents, or coils required for vascular and other neurosurgeries are not included in the standard package rate. These are typically billed separately at MRP. It is essential to clarify the cost of all such items with the hospital before the surgery.

What is a Stereotaxic Procedure as listed in the rates?

A stereotaxic procedure is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a 3D coordinate system to precisely locate and target small areas deep within the brain. It is commonly used for performing biopsies, aspirating cysts, or for functional neurosurgery like lesioning for movement disorders.

Does the CGHS package cover the entire hospital stay and follow-up visits?

The package rate covers the hospital stay for a pre-defined number of days specific to the procedure. Any stay beyond this duration may incur extra charges. Post-discharge follow-up consultations and medications are generally not part of the surgery package and should be availed through your CGHS Wellness Centre.

What is an EC-IC bypass procedure?

Extracranial-Intracranial (EC-IC) bypass is a surgical procedure to restore or augment blood flow to the brain. It involves connecting a blood vessel from outside the skull (extracranial) to a vessel inside the skull (intracranial), bypassing a blocked or narrowed artery.

Related

• How to apply for a CGHS card
• CGHS rate list for common procedures
• CGHS vs Ayushman Bharat: what's the difference

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.