Considering Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad? Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started

Due to a lack of medical insurance or inadequate medical insurance, numerous senior citizens in developed Western countries with knee-hip joint issues find themselves in a dire situation where they either have to wait for years together or pay a huge sum of money to get a knee joint replacement surgery done.

Having a knee replacement surgery done abroad is increasingly becoming a popular choice for such senior citizens grappling with debilitating knee conditions.

People opting for knee replacement surgery overseas can take advantage of several aspects like - highly affordable costs, access to state-of-the-art medical facilities, renowned orthopedic surgeons, and often minimal to no waiting times. However, such an overseas travel for knee replacement surgery seems like a hugely daunting task with the risk of facing the unknown in a foreign land, oceans away from home.

Hence, before you embark on your knee replacement surgery abroad, thorough, and meticulous planning is essential for an effective and desired outcome. Here is a list of things to be done for a successful Knee replacement surgery abroad.

Preparing for Your Knee Replacement Journey Abroad:

• Determining the right procedure: The first step is to consult either your General Practitioner (GP) or a consultant, who will evaluate and ascertain the right procedure needed. Your GP will get the necessary investigations done and you can request for access to these reports. Having your x-rays/scans readily available will enable you to better consult different options for your surgery abroad.

• Choosing the right destination: Choosing the right destination for surgery involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure a successful and satisfactory experience. Treatment costs, medical expertise of the doctors, healthcare standards of the hospital, location accessibility and travel logistics, language and communication barriers, pre and post-operative support, previous patients' reviews, etc are some important factors that need to be considered before zeroing down on the potential destination.

  The most popular destinations known for their reputable healthcare facilities and expertise in orthopedic procedures include countries like India, Thailand, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Turkey. These countries offer a combination of high-quality medical care, experienced surgeons, modern facilities, and often more affordable costs compared to many Western countries.

  Among all these destinations, India as a knee replacement surgery destination stands out from the rest of the destinations in terms of its unique combination of quality care and affordable prices. The experience and skill set of Indian orthopedic surgeons is widely appreciated worldwide.

• Choosing the right Healthcare Provider: Once you choose the destination country for your knee replacement surgery, determining the right surgeon and hospital is a crucial step. A thorough research is required before selecting an accredited healthcare provider and a surgeon with proven expertise in knee replacement surgery. This diligence helps ensure the highest standards of safety, efficacy, and post-operative care throughout the treatment process.

  Many reputable international hospitals offer personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, fostering a sense of confidence and comfort for patients seeking care away from home.

• Choosing the right Medical Tourism Company: While one may feel lost by looking at innumerable options of hospitals and doctors available, it is a good idea to seek assistance from reputable medical tourism facilitators or healthcare providers specializing in international patient care. Also, navigating in a foreign country may pose challenges, requiring support in understanding the local culture, language, and other aspects.

  These medical tourism companies primarily assist patients in finding the most suitable doctors and hospitals for their specific needs; handle all aspects of travel arrangements, including flights, accommodations, airport transfers, and local transportation; coordinate appointments with healthcare providers; help with cost estimation and financial planning, etc.

  Choosing the right medical tourism facilitator can offer assistance in these areas, ensuring a smoother experience for you. Above all, reputable medical tourism companies prioritize patient safety and satisfaction above everything. They partner only with accredited hospitals and healthcare providers that meet international standards of care, ensuring high-quality treatment and positive experiences for patients.

  The vintage of the medical tourism company, its previous patient reviews, its association with top hospitals and best surgeons, and its professional and prompt responses are a few indicators of a good medical tourism company.

  An example of a competent medical tourism facilitator from India is IndiCure Health Tours, who have been in this industry for over a decade now and have helped hundreds of patients from over 50+ countries.

• Surgery Planning and Documentation: Once the hospital/ surgeon is finalized, then comes the logistical and documentation aspects. Obtaining a Medical visa may be necessary in many countries as a prerequisite for seeking medical treatment. Ensuring compliance with the relevant guidelines is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free journey.

  Financial arrangements, such as advance booking, understanding the payment methods available, and other necessary documentation also need to be finalized.

• Preparing for your travel and stay abroad for knee replacement surgery: Once you have decided on the destination and healthcare provider for your surgery, the next step is to plan your stay and travel, including tickets and securing accommodation in a hotel for the post-surgery recovery period following your hospital stay. At the same time, it is essential to take note of the climate at your destination country during the time of your surgery and pack accordingly.

  For instance, in a country like India, which is a tad relatively conservative than compared to other Western countries when it comes to clothing, it is recommended to dress comfortably and modestly. Crucially, while booking your tickets, inform your airline in advance about your wheelchair as a post-surgery requirement when booking tickets to ensure a smooth experience at the airport until your return flight home.

What to expect after Knee Replacement?

• Hospital Stay: Most patients stay at the hospital for 3-5 days after the surgery where they get complete nursing care and are under constant medical supervision. The nurses at the hospital will help you walk with assistance 12 to 24 hours after your surgery.

• Pain and discomfort: Pain and discomfort are common after surgery. Your healthcare team will provide pain medications to help manage this discomfort. It is normal to feel tired for the first few days after the surgery. A feeling of soreness and tenderness in the knee is also expected, especially when moving it or trying to walk.

• Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation is a crucial part of the recovery process. You will work with a physical therapist to regain strength, mobility, and flexibility in your knee. This may start in the hospital and continue as outpatient therapy.

• Physical Therapy and Follow-Ups: It is generally advisable that you stay for at least 2 weeks post-discharge from the hospital so that you get regular physical therapy sessions and have follow-ups with your surgeon, to make sure that you are recovering well.

Before you go home, you will receive instructions on how to care for your incision site, manage pain, and perform exercises at home to support your recovery.

You may need assistive devices such as crutches, walkers, or canes initially, to help you move around safely. As you progress, you may gradually transition to walking without assistance.

During your flight back home, you can request your airline to provide a wheelchair facility as walking long distances in the airport may be difficult.

Resuming Care Back Home: Journey towards a long-term recovery

Your quest for enhanced mobility and well-being does not end upon your return home following knee replacement surgery abroad. It is imperative to maintain proper care during the postoperative phase back home, to facilitate a seamless and enduring recovery.

Complying with certain guidelines and recommendations can optimize your rehabilitation and help you experience the advantages of your new knee for a long time. Some of these are:

• Regular Physical therapy and Rehabilitation: It is crucial to strictly follow the prescribed rehabilitation plan. Your healthcare team, both during your hospital stay and at home, will furnish you with tailored exercises and activities to aid your recovery. Maintaining consistency is essential, so integrate these exercises into your daily routine religiously. These exercises are crafted to bolster your strength, flexibility, and overall joint function.

  Engaging in regular physical therapy at home will play a pivotal role in sustaining your ongoing recovery. Regular physical therapy goes a long way in the success of Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad.

  

• Activities of Daily Living: Balancing rest with gradual reintegration of daily activities, as recommended by your healthcare team, is imperative. Begin with light activities and advance at a pace that suits your comfort level, allowing your body the necessary time to heal and adjust.

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Enhance your recuperation through the upkeep of a healthy lifestyle. Prioritize a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and participation in activities that foster holistic well-being. Embracing a healthy lifestyle can profoundly influence your joint health and bolster long-term success.

• Communication with Healthcare Providers: It is always a good idea to stay in touch with your surgeon/ healthcare provider so that you get the required guidance/ answers to any queries whenever you need.

  Also, regular check-ups with your General Practitioner and informing your surgeon of any updates, are always helpful. To enhance the safety and accessibility of your home during your recovery period, the following safety measures and precautions should also be followed:

  • Opt for a single-level living arrangement to eliminate the need for navigating stairs, which can pose challenges.
  • Incorporate safety bars or a sturdy handrail in your shower or bath area.
  • Ensure the stability of stairway handrails to provide reliable support.
  • Acquire a sturdy chair equipped with a firm seat cushion and backrest, along with a footstool to aid in leg elevation.
  • Consider installing a toilet seat riser with supportive arms if your toilet is low-set.
  • Invest in a secure bench or chair designed for use in the shower.
  • Remove any loose rugs and cords to prevent tripping hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs for Knee Replacement surgery abroad

Is knee replacement surgery abroad considered safe?

The safety of knee replacement surgery abroad can vary depending on several factors. While many reputable healthcare facilities around the world offer high-quality surgical care, there are also risks associated with undergoing surgery in a foreign country.

First and foremost is the quality and accreditation of the hospital or clinic where the surgery will be performed. It is imperative they have a track record of successful knee replacement surgeries and adhere to international standards of care. The credentials of the surgeon are equally important. The surgeon should be board-certified and have extensive experience in knee replacement surgery.

If you choose a reliable surgeon and healthcare facility and do your diligent checks, Knee replacement surgery abroad can surely be considered safe.

What results can I expect after my Knee replacement surgery?

Knee replacement surgery offers alleviation from pain, enhanced mobility, and an enhanced quality of life. Following recovery, you can easily participate in a range of low-impact activities, including walking, swimming, golfing, and biking, or can even enjoy higher-impact activities, depending on your age and the type of implant used.

What is the typical lifespan of knee replacements?

The typical lifespan of knee replacements can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implant used, the patient's age and activity level, and the presence of any underlying health conditions. Nonetheless, most knee replacements can be expected to last at least 15 to 20 years.

What are the potential complications following knee replacement surgery?

Knee replacement is a frequently performed and generally safe procedure. Most people who have a knee replacement have no complications, as long as the surgery is performed at an accredited facility by a well-trained and experienced Joint replacement surgeon.

Nevertheless, like any surgical intervention, it does carry inherent risks, like DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis), wound infections, damage to nerves/ tissues, etc.

Is it necessary to bring a companion with me while I travel for my Knee replacement surgery abroad?

It is not mandatory to bring a companion with you, as there are nurses and support staff at the hospital to take care of you. However, if you think you need more physical/ emotional support and a family member/ friend would help you with that, it is certainly a good idea to bring someone with you, especially when you are having a bilateral knee replacement surgery abroad.

How much does a Knee Replacement cost abroad?

The cost of a knee replacement surgery abroad can vary widely depending on several factors, including the country where the procedure is performed, the specific healthcare facility and surgeon chosen, the type of implant used, and any additional services or amenities included in the package.

India is one of the top destinations for Knee Replacement surgery and the average Knee Replacement surgery cost in India is around US $ 4000. This is significantly less than in many high-income countries like the United States or parts of Europe, where the average cost is as high as US $ 30,000.

The lower expense associated with knee replacement surgery in India does not indicate inferior quality, as the country boasts a cadre of proficient orthopedic surgeons and top-notch orthopedic hospitals that strictly adhere to international standards.

Key Takeaway -

Knee replacement surgery abroad offers a compelling option for individuals seeking effective treatment for debilitating knee conditions. With careful planning and consideration, patients can access world-class medical care, expertise, and cost-effective solutions, ultimately improving their quality of life and mobility.