Knee replacement surgery is a standard orthopedic procedure that significantly improves the quality of life for individuals suffering from severe knee pain. While it’s a life-changing procedure, the cost is a significant concern for many Indians. This blog post will provide a comprehensive overview of knee replacement costs in India, factors influencing the price, and potential cost-saving measures.
Factors Affecting Knee Replacement Cost in India
Several factors contribute to the overall cost of knee replacement surgery in India:
Type of Surgery: Robotic or computer-assisted knee replacement is generally more expensive than conventional knee replacement. Conventional joint replacement has been a highly successful procedure for over 50 years. Newer technologies add to the benefits, but recent studies found them inefficient regarding the cost involved. So, one can choose the proven conventional knee techniques to save extra pounds.
Choice of Hospital: Corporate multispeciality hospitals in cities have higher costs than smaller hospitals. So, choosing a smaller hospital equipped with a joint replacement facility is fine.
Surgeon’s Fees: The surgeon’s experience can influence the overall cost. A surgeon with more than 25 years of experience will cost more than a well-trained surgeon having experience of 10 to 15 years.
Type of Implant: The quality and brand of the implant can impact the price. Three material types of knee components are available in the Indian market.
- Cobalt chrome alloy
- Titanium alloy
- Gold knee ( type of titanium)
Cobalt chrome is the cheapest knee component material, and gold knee implants are the most costly. There is no harm in choosing the most sold knee component material, cobalt chrome.
Pre- and Post-Operative Care: The duration of the hospital stay and the extent of rehabilitation required can also increase the total cost. To save some money, one can get all their preoperative investigations and anesthetic checkups on an OPD basis. This way, one can avoid extra days of hospitalization.
Insurance Coverage: If you have health insurance, it can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Click here to read more about knee replacement
Average Cost of Knee Replacement in India
Providing an exact average cost for knee replacement surgery in India is challenging due to variations in hospitals, cities, and individual cases. However, you can expect a wide range of costs:
Economy options: INR 1.5 lakhs to INR 3 lakhs (approximately USD 1,900 to USD 3,800)
Mid-range options: INR 3 lakhs to INR 5 lakhs (approximately USD 3,800 to USD 6,300)
Premium options: INR 5 lakhs and above (approximately USD 6,300 and above)
These figures are estimates and can vary significantly based on the abovementioned factors.
Reducing surgery cost in India
While it’s impossible to eliminate all costs, here are some strategies to potentially reduce expenses:
Insurance Coverage: Check your insurance policy to understand the coverage for knee replacement surgery.
Compare Hospitals and Surgeons: Research different hospitals and surgeons to compare costs and expertise.
Negotiation: Sometimes, you can negotiate prices with hospitals or surgeons.
Financial Assistance: Explore financial assistance options offered by hospitals or charitable organizations.
Important Considerations
While cost is a crucial factor, it’s essential to prioritize the quality of care and the expertise of your surgeon. Don’t compromise on your health to save money. It’s advisable to consult with multiple orthopedic surgeons to get a comprehensive understanding of your options and costs.
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
