Learn about Temporal Arteritis Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Temporal Arteritis and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Temporal Arteritis

Temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis, is a medical condition diagnosed and managed by a Rheumatologist. It is an inflammatory disease affecting medium and large arteries, most commonly the temporal arteries in the head. The primary diagnostic procedure is a temporal artery biopsy, where a small section of the artery is surgically removed and examined under a microscope for signs of inflammation. This procedure is crucial for confirming the diagnosis, as untreated temporal arteritis can lead to serious complications like permanent vision loss or stroke. A Rheumatologist coordinates this process, interpreting the biopsy results and initiating immediate treatment with high-dose corticosteroids to control inflammation and prevent damage. Early diagnosis and management are vital for preserving vision and overall vascular health.

Key Highlights

    Provides a definitive diagnosis for giant cell arteritis, guiding critical treatment decisions.Helps prevent serious, irreversible complications such as sudden and permanent blindness.Enables the prompt initiation of corticosteroid therapy to rapidly control dangerous inflammation.Performed as a minor outpatient procedure, typically with local anesthesia.Involves a multidisciplinary approach led by a Rheumatologist for comprehensive care.

Who is this surgery for?

  • New-onset, severe headache, often localized to the temples.
  • Jaw pain or claudication (pain when chewing).
  • Tenderness, swelling, or decreased pulse in the temporal artery.
  • Sudden, painless vision loss, double vision, or other visual disturbances.
  • Unexplained fever, fatigue, weight loss, or muscle aches (polymyalgia rheumatica symptoms).
  • Elevated inflammatory markers (ESR and CRP) in blood tests.

How to prepare

  • Consultation with a Rheumatologist to review symptoms, medical history, and blood test results.
  • Disclosure of all current medications, especially blood thinners (may need to be adjusted).
  • Informed consent process explaining the procedure, benefits, and risks.
  • Local anesthesia is used; no general fasting is typically required, but follow specific doctor instructions.
  • The scalp area may be shaved slightly around the biopsy site.

Risks & possible complications

  • Bleeding or hematoma (bruising) at the biopsy site.
  • Infection of the incision.
  • Scarring or minor hair loss around the scar.
  • Numbness or tingling in the scalp near the incision, which is usually temporary.
  • Rarely, damage to a facial nerve branch.
  • A negative biopsy does not completely rule out the condition (false negative).

Recovery & hospital stay

  • The incision is closed with stitches or staples, which are removed in 7-14 days.
  • Mild pain or discomfort is managed with over-the-counter pain relievers as advised.
  • Keep the wound clean and dry for the first 24-48 hours; follow specific bathing instructions.
  • Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for a few days.
  • Immediate reporting to the doctor of signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus, fever) or vision changes.
  • Follow-up with the Rheumatologist is essential to monitor treatment response and adjust medication.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0 days (Outpatient) or 1 day
  • checked Expected recovery time: 7-14 days for wound healing

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering temporal arteritis in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for temporal arteritis compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 163 – USD 489 0 days (Outpatient) or 1 day ~ 7-14 days for wound healing Know More
Turkey USD 1,208 – USD 3,624 0 days (Outpatient) or 1 day ~ 7-14 days for wound healing Know More
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Rheumatologists for Temporal Arteritis

Explore experienced rheumatologists who regularly perform temporal arteritis and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Prathyusha Padiyar
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Rheumatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus KMC Hospital Mangalore

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