Medical Treatments in China
World-class healthcare at a fraction of Western prices. Browse 509 treatments and compare costs for international patients.
27 treatments in Digestive & Metabolic
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
袖状胃切除术
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in China is performed at major hospitals with experienced bariatric surgery teams at 60-70% lower cost than in the US. The procedure removes approximately 80% of the stomach, creating a tube-shaped "sleeve" that limits food intake and reduces hunger hormones. Chinese hospitals offer comprehensive bariatric programs including pre-operative evaluation, surgery, nutritional counseling, and post-operative support.
Diagnostic Endoscopy & Colonoscopy
胃肠镜检查
Gastroscopy and colonoscopy in China are performed using high-definition Olympus and Fujifilm endoscopic systems with AI-assisted polyp detection. Chinese gastroenterologists perform millions of endoscopic procedures annually, with expertise in early cancer detection and endoscopic resection. International departments offer painless (sedated) endoscopy with same-day or next-day scheduling and rapid pathology results.
Gallbladder Removal
腹腔镜胆囊切除术
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in China, with surgeons highly experienced in both standard and single-incision techniques. China's major hospitals use 4K laparoscopic systems and offer same-week scheduling for international patients. The procedure is performed as a day surgery or with one overnight stay, allowing patients to resume travel quickly.
Thyroid Surgery
甲状腺手术
Thyroid surgery in China includes thyroid lobectomy, total thyroidectomy, and minimally invasive approaches for thyroid nodules, goiter, and thyroid cancer. Chinese head and neck surgeons are among the most experienced globally due to the high prevalence of thyroid disease in Asia. Advanced techniques including transoral thyroidectomy (scarless) and intraoperative nerve monitoring are widely available at top hospitals.
GLP-1 Weight Loss Treatment
GLP-1减重治疗
GLP-1 receptor agonists including semaglutide (Wegovy) and liraglutide (Saxenda) are available in China at 75-85% less than US pricing, with domestically-produced biosimilar options further reducing costs. Treatment is combined with lifestyle counseling and metabolic monitoring at major hospital obesity clinics. Medical tourists can obtain multi-month supplies and comprehensive metabolic assessments, making China an attractive destination for evidence-based weight management.
Liver Cirrhosis Treatment
肝硬化治疗
Comprehensive liver cirrhosis management combining antiviral therapy, hepatoprotective medications, and interventional procedures. China's hepatology centers treat high volumes of cirrhosis patients due to regional hepatitis prevalence, offering advanced techniques including TIPS procedures and artificial liver support systems. Treatment plans are individualized based on Child-Pugh classification and underlying etiology.
ERCP Procedure
ERCP胆胰管造影
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a minimally invasive procedure combining endoscopy and fluoroscopy to diagnose and treat conditions of the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. Chinese gastroenterology centers perform high volumes of ERCP procedures with advanced techniques including SpyGlass cholangioscopy. The procedure can remove gallstones, place stents, and obtain tissue samples in a single session.
Hemorrhoid Surgery
痔疮手术
Advanced hemorrhoid treatment options ranging from minimally invasive procedures like PPH (stapled hemorrhoidopexy) and THD (transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization) to traditional hemorrhoidectomy for severe cases. Chinese colorectal surgery departments offer high-volume expertise with modern techniques that minimize pain and accelerate recovery. Many centers combine Western surgical approaches with traditional Chinese medicine for post-operative healing.
Crohn's Disease Treatment
克罗恩病治疗
Comprehensive Crohn's disease management utilizing biologics, immunomodulators, and surgical intervention when necessary. China's IBD centers offer access to the latest biologic therapies including infliximab, adalimumab, and ustekinumab at substantially lower costs. Multidisciplinary teams combine gastroenterology, nutrition, psychology, and surgery for optimal disease control and quality of life improvement.
Hepatitis Treatment Program
肝炎治疗方案
Specialized hepatitis B and C treatment programs leveraging China's extensive experience in viral hepatitis management. Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy achieves 95%+ cure rates for hepatitis C, while nucleos(t)ide analogue therapy provides effective long-term viral suppression for hepatitis B. Chinese hepatology centers benefit from treating the world's largest hepatitis patient population with cutting-edge protocols.
Bariatric Endoscopy (Gastric Balloon)
胃内球囊减重
Non-surgical weight loss procedure involving endoscopic placement of an intragastric balloon to reduce stomach capacity and promote satiety. Chinese bariatric centers offer FDA-approved balloon systems including Orbera and Spatz at significantly lower costs. The procedure requires no incisions, takes under 30 minutes, and provides a reversible weight loss option for patients not ready for or not qualifying for bariatric surgery.
Pancreatic Surgery
胰腺手术
Complex pancreatic surgical procedures including Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy), distal pancreatectomy, and total pancreatectomy for tumors, chronic pancreatitis, and cystic lesions. China's top hepatobiliary centers perform high volumes of pancreatic surgery with experienced teams and advanced techniques including robotic-assisted approaches. These centers offer comparable outcomes to Western institutions at substantially reduced costs.
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