Introduction
Looking for an affordable option for total knee replacement? Knee pain can significantly impact your quality of life and make your daily activities challenging.
Total knee replacement, or total knee arthroplasty, is a common orthopedic surgery that replaces the articular surfaces of the knee joint with smooth metal and polyethylene plastic.
However, with advanced technologies like robotic-assisted surgery and 3D-printed implants, Indian hospitals provide precise and minimally invasive approaches, which attract thousands of international patients every year.
You know the best part, the cost of a total knee replacement in India is 6200 to 8000 USD, which is less as compared to other Western countries.
So, are you ready to improve your health?
Take a step towards reclaiming your mobility by exploring India’s exceptional healthcare options at an affordable cost.
What is a Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement is a type of surgery that helps to replace a damaged knee joint. A minimally invasive surgery uses smaller incisions than traditional surgery, however, this type of surgery requires special tools so that the surgical team can see and perform the procedure through the small cuts.
During the minimally invasive approach, the surgeon makes cuts to access your shinbone and thigh bone and then removes a portion of the bones that make up the knee joint. The surgeon will replace these bone parts with metal components that recreate the joint surface, and then a layer of plastic is placed between the metal components for smooth gliding.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Total Knee Replacement in India
‣ Type of Implant
The type of implant used in the surgery can affect the cost, because there are different types of implants and each of them has different benefits and costs.
‣ Hospitalization Fees
The hospitalization fees involve the type of hospital room you’ve chosen, whether it is a private or deluxe, or shared room; these rooms charge differently, and that may affect the cost of the treatment.
‣ Experience of the Doctor
The type of surgeon you choose can affect the overall cost of the treatment, because India has highly skilled surgeons, and many of them have trained internationally in renowned institutions, which contributes to their expertise, and because of that, they charge higher fees for their services.
‣ Medications
It might be the reason for the increase in the cost because proper pain medications are important for postoperative recovery.
‣ Post-Surgical Complications
Treatment for post-operative complications can affect the cost because if any complication occurs, such as hemorrhage or infection, then you may require ICU services, blood transfusions, and so on.
‣ Rehabilitation Cost
Rehabilitation, like physiotherapy, follow-ups, etc, often requires care after surgery, which helps in regaining mobility. However, the length of rehabilitation can impact the overall cost of the treatment.
Cost Breakdown of Total Knee Replacement in India
The cost of total knee replacement in India is affordable for international patients who are seeking the best care at an affordable cost. Additionally, the cost includes the overall cost of the treatment, diagnostic tests, rehabilitation, follow-ups if necessary, and so on.
Cost Component | Details | Cost in USD |
Pre-operative Consultation & Diagnosis | Consultations, X-rays, MRI scans, blood tests | 250 USD |
Surgery Costs | Includes surgeon fees, type of implant, and hospital stay | 6200 USD to 8,000 USD |
Rehabilitation and Follow-up | Physiotherapy sessions, medications, supportive devices, and follow-up visits | Variable by procedure |
Cost Comparison of Total Knee Replacement in India
Country | Cost Structure |
India | 6200 USD to 8,000 USD |
United States | 30,000 to 50,000 USD |
Germany | 6000 to 11,000 USD |
Turkey | 8000 to 12,000 USD |
Key Takeaways
✅ Affordable Treatment Cost
The cost of total knee replacement in India is affordable for patients worldwide, where you can get your treatment done at the lowest cost and save half of your surgery cost.
✅ Advanced Medical Technology
Indian hospitals are equipped with the latest advancements that are used in surgery, which help in providing precise surgical outcomes and faster recovery.
Why Choose India for Total Knee Replacement
The cost of total knee replacement in India is affordable as compared to other Western countries like the US and, UK, which makes it a preferred destination for total knee replacement.
India provides top medical facilities and highly skilled medical professionals, and many hospitals are accredited by international organizations like JCI and NABH, which ensure adherence to global standards of care.
Indian hospitals are equipped with the latest technologies, which ensure accurate diagnosis and provide effective treatments that include imaging techniques and minimally invasive approaches.
Additionally, many medical professionals and hospital staff are fluent in English, so that they can communicate easily with international patients.
Cost Range of Total Knee Replacement in India
Minimum Cost | Maximum Cost | Hospital Stay | India Stay |
6200 USD | 8000 USD | 5 Days | 3 Weeks |
Why Total Knee Replacement is Performed?
Total knee replacement is a common orthopedic procedure that helps that involves replacing the articular surfaces, which helps to improve quality of life if you're experiencing end-stage osteoarthritis by reducing pain and increasing functionality.
Who is Eligible For a Total Knee Replacement?
A total knee replacement is recommended when inflammation or pain in your knee joint gets severe and affects your normal activities as well.
However, here are some reasons why TKR is recommended for patients:
Materials Used in Knee Implants
Here is the list of materials used in making knee implants:
- Metal components: These are typically made of cobalt-chromium alloys, titanium, or stainless steel.
- Plastic components: These are made of high-density polyethylene
- Ceramic components: These are used in some implants for their durability and compatibility.
Diagnostic Tests Before Total Knee Replacement
Tests | Description |
Medical history | Doctors will ask you about your overall health, how much knee pain you're experiencing, and how well you can move. |
Physical examination | A physical exam can help check how well your knee moves, how stable it is, how strong it feels, and how your legs are aligned overall. |
X-rays | X-rays can help doctors see how badly your knee is injured or if it has any unusual shapes. |
Other tests | Sometimes, doctors may need to do blood tests or special scans, like an MRI, to figure out what might be wrong with your health. |
Dos and Don’ts Before Surgery
Do's
🟢 Talk to your doctor about your health history, any medications you're currently using, and any health issues you’ve had before to prepare for surgery.
🟢 To help you recover, engage in gentle exercises to strengthen the muscles around your knee, following your doctor’s suggestions.
🟢 It's important to stop smoking and avoid drinking alcohol because these can slow down your healing.
🟢 Make sure to take all your prescribed medications on time and exactly as your doctor instructed.
Don'ts
🔴 Avoid taking medications like Aspirin or other pain relievers without talking to your doctor first, as these can increase your chance of bleeding during surgery.
🔴 Try to stay away from any heavy exercise or activities that might hurt your knee before the surgery.
🔴 If you notice any signs of infection, like a fever, swelling, or redness, let your surgeon know right away, as this might push back your surgery date.
How is Total Knee Replacement Performed?
‣ Before Surgery
- Before the surgery starts, the doctor will ask you about the medications that you’re taking, and if there’s any need to stop any medication, they will recommend it to you.
- You will get instructions on what you should do and what to avoid.
‣ During Surgery
- When the surgery begins, you will get general anesthesia that will keep you relaxed so that you won’t feel discomfort during the procedure.
- On the other hand, a healthcare provider will closely check your vital signs during the surgery.
- At first, the surgeon will cut the middle of your knee, and then they will remove the damaged portions of your thigh and the skin and bone.
- After this, metal implants are placed into the joint space by cementing them into the remaining bone.
- However, in some cases, your surgeon will also remove part of the underside of the kneecap.
- At last, a plastic spacer is inserted into the space between the metal implants to ease movement.
- Then a layer of your skin will be surgically closed.
‣ After Surgery
- After surgery, you will be moved to the recovery room where your vital signs will be monitored.
- You will get medications that will prevent complications and pain after surgery.
- Before going home, you will get a list of instructions on what you should do and what not, to prevent any complications.
Types of Total Knee Replacement Surgery
‣ High Flex Total Knee Replacement
It’s a type of knee replacement surgery that is designed to provide for ga reater range of motion, especially in deep knee flexion after surgery. Additionally, this procedure can be beneficial for people who need this increased mobility for activities like climbing, squatting, or kneeling, which might be challenging with standard knee replacement surgeries.
‣ Oxinium Total Knee Replacement
This approach is used on knee replacement, and it’s known for its biocompatibility, scratch resistance, and smoothness, which provide potential advantages over traditional materials such as cobalt-chrome.
‣ Revision Total Knee Replacement
A revision total knee replacement surgery is an operation to take out parts of your old knee joint and insert a new one. However, there are some reasons why knee replacement can fail:
- Wearing out the artificial joint.
- Infection in your knee
- Dislocation
- Fracture of the femur or tibia
‣ Minimally Invasive Total Knee Replacement Surgery
This approach involves small incisions and less tissue dissection as compared to the traditional approach, which provides quicker recovery, reduced pain, and faster mobility. However, this approach focuses on sparing the quadriceps muscles and tendons, which control knee extension, and often combines a parapatellar approach where the kneecap is not fully flipped out of the way.
Technology Used in Total Knee Replacement in India
Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
Robotic system such as Meko and NAVIO helps surgeons to perform surgery with high precision. Additionally, these systems create a 3D model of the patient’s knee, which allows surgeons to place it accurately.
Computer-Assisted Navigation
This technology provides real-time feedback during surgery, which helps surgeons to align implants more accurately. Additionally, this technology enhances the precision of implant positioning, which leads to improved joint function and longevity.
Augmented Reality (AR)
This technology provides surgeons with a 3D visualization of the patient’s knee anatomy during surgery. However, its real-time guidance helps in precise implant placement and soft tissue balancing, potentially improving surgical outcomes.
Patient-Specific Implants
It helps to make custom implants that match the patient’s unique anatomy. However, it's a personalized approach that leads to better fit, function, and patient satisfaction.
Smart Sensor Technology
It helps to provide data on joint loading and alignment during and after surgery, which helps in achieving optimal soft tissue balance and monitoring implant performance over time.
Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS)
It's a unique technique which involves smaller incisions and less disruption to surrounding tissues which resulting in reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and providing faster rehabilitation.
Complications of Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement surgery is now a standard surgical procedure however, severe complications are rare, but it’s good to learn about the possible complications before entering the operating room.
- Blood clots
- Infection
- Wound and bleeding
- Persistent pain
- Metal hypersensitivity
- Nerve or neurovascular damage
- Knee stiffness and loss of motion
- Implant problems
When Can I Go Back to Work?
Well, it takes 4 to 6 weeks for you to get back to your normal activities and desk job after surgery, but in the case of a physically demanding job, it might take a long recovery time.
Hospital Stay after Total Knee Replacement
After surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for 5 days or more, which depends on your condition, and during this period, you will be monitored properly.
Recovery Time after Total Knee Replacement in India
After surgery, the recovery might take time, but you can resume your normal activities within 3 weeks.
Success Rate of Total Knee Replacement in India
The success rate of total knee replacement is 99% in India however, the success rate is now high due to skilled medical professionals and advanced technology.
Best Doctor for Total Knee Replacement in India
Best Hospital for Total Knee Replacement in India
Why Choose RIHLATMED for Total Knee Replacement in India
‣ Top Orthopedic Surgeons You Can Trust
Our team includes orthopedic surgeons with over 20 years of experience. They specialize in essential procedures like knee and hip replacements and surgeries for sports injuries.
‣ Modern Hospitals with the Latest Technology
We partner with accredited hospitals that offer advanced medical technology. These hospitals use modern tools, including robotics and new diagnostic equipment, to provide personalized care for every patient.
‣ Support for International Patients
RIHLATMED makes your experience easier. We help you get medical visa invitation letters and guide you through the visa application process. We also arrange airport pickups, hotel bookings, and provide 24/7 support.
Additionally, we assist with hospital stays, offer local SIM cards, and provide fit-to-fly certificates for patients ready to travel home after treatment.
Conclusion
Total knee replacement is generally a successful procedure that helps in improving pain and mobility function in patients with severe knee damage. However, to prepare for the surgery, you may undergo several examinations that help the doctor understand your condition so that they can decide whether you need surgery or not.
Disclaimer
The information available in this article is for general purposes, and the cost mentioned is not estimated. So, if you want to get a professional opinion about the exact cost estimate, then we are here to assist you. Contact RIHLATMED Now.
