Knee Replacement (Total/Partial)

Ideal for severe osteoarthritis or post-traumatic arthritis unresponsive to conservative care. India offers experienced surgeons, robotic/navigation options, short waits, and ~70–80% savings vs US/UK. MediHeal coordinates opinions, estimates, visas, travel, and rehab planning end-to-end.

• Severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis with pain, stiffness, and functional loss despite meds, injections, and physiotherapy.
• Cartilage wear requiring resurfacing with implants: Total Knee Replacement (TKR) for whole joint; Partial Knee Replacement (PKR/UKA) when one compartment is damaged.

• High-quality care with fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons and advanced technology (robotic assistance, computer navigation).
• Shorter waiting times than many Western systems.
• Substantial savings: indicative TKR packages ~USD 3,500–6,000 in India vs ≥USD 40,000 in the US (varies by implant, hospital, surgeon).

• Surgeon/hospital selection, remote second opinions, itemized estimates.
• Full logistics: visas, flights, accommodation, local transport, interpreters.
• On-ground navigation with international desks from admission to discharge and rehab.

• Total Knee Replacement (TKR)— Entire joint resurfaced; common for advanced OA.
• Partial Knee Replacement (PKR/UKA)— Only damaged compartment replaced; often less painful with faster recovery when appropriately indicated.

1. Pre-operative

   • Medical evaluation, imaging, and optimization of comorbidities.
   • Anaesthesia planning; disclose all medications/supplements.

2. Procedure

   • Regional or general anaesthesia.
   • Duration varies by technique and use of robotics/navigation.

3. Early Rehab

   • Mobilization within 24 hours where appropriate.
   • Sitting/standing/assisted walking typically within 2–3 days with adequate pain control.

1. Weeks 1–3

   Transition from walker/crutches → cane or unassisted; swelling and pain trend down with guided physio.

2. Weeks 4–12

   Marked functional gains; many resume driving ~6–8 weeks; low-impact activities (cycling/swimming/walking) by ~10–12 weeks.

3. 6–12 months

   Continued strength and mobility improvements; most daily activities comfortable.

4. Beyond 1 year

   Incremental gains; prefer low-impact activity for implant longevity.

• Significant pain relief and improved alignment/stability.
• Better quality of life when rehab protocols are followed.
• Coordinated medical tourism can reduce wait times and total costs while maintaining standards via accredited providers.

• Typical inclusions: surgeon & hospital fees, implant (standard), anaesthesia, diagnostics, inpatient stay, immediate post-op physiotherapy.
• Exclusions: airfare, visas, extended rehab, companion lodging (unless bundled).
• Pricing varies by implant brand, fixation type, robotics/navigation, hospital accreditation, city, LOS.

• Medical visa commonly valid up to a year with attendant provisions.
• Documents: medical records, appointment letters, financials.
• Plan ~2–3 weeks in-country for pre-op assessment, surgery, and early rehab; obtain fit-to-fly clearance for return.

• Optimize blood sugar, weight, and blood pressure; stop smoking to reduce infection and clot risk.
• Prepare home: declutter, install supports, arrange caregiver help and mobility aids for first weeks.

• Follow a progressive physio plan to improve ROM, strength, gait, and independence.
• Prefer low-impact activity long term; confirm return-to-work/sport with your surgical team.