Knee replacement cost: what to compare

Why no one can price your knee replacement before an exam

The cost depends on your knee, your general health, whether one or both knees need surgery, the implant, the type of anaesthesia, and how long you stay. A surgeon has to review your reports and examine you first. Any price given before that is a guess.

How to get a real estimate

1. Contact the hospital’s official international patient desk (from the hospital’s own website).
2. Send your reports (X-rays, MRI, doctor’s notes) only to that desk.
3. Ask for a doctor’s review, by video or phone if possible.
4. Ask for a written estimate after that review.
5. Ask what could change it once the surgeon examines you in person.
6. Do not pay until you have a written estimate in the hospital’s name.

What a written estimate should say

• Which knee, and whether one or both
• The type of implant
• Number of hospital days and the room type included
• Surgeon, anaesthesia and operating theatre fees
• Tests, medicines and physiotherapy: included or extra
• What happens if you stay longer or have a complication, and who pays
• Refund and cancellation terms

Questions to ask

• What is not included in this estimate?
• What could make the final bill higher?
• What does each extra day cost?
• Will I get a written receipt in the hospital’s name?

Staying safe

Send medical reports only to a hospital’s official desk. Do not send them to an unknown WhatsApp number, or to an agent who will not name the hospital.