What is the Average Cost of ACL Surgery?

ACL Surgery Cost in India: Price Breakdown

ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, is a soft tissue in your knee joining the tibia and femur. Injuries to this ligament are common among sportsmen and other physically active individuals. However, it is one of the critical injuries that can interrupt the functioning of your legs. 

An ACL surgery can repair the damaged anterior cruciate ligament and restore your knee's function. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery is becoming increasingly accessible in India, helping both domestic patients and medical tourists from around the world. 
However, the cost of an ACL surgery can vary depending on several factors. Read ahead to learn about the ACL surgery expenses, including the factors that influence them and whether they are covered by health insurance.

How Much Does ACL Surgery Cost in India?

In comparison to Western countries, the cost of ACL surgery in India is significantly more affordable. The average price of ACL surgery in India is from ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,50,000, depending on the city, hospital, and specific surgical technique used.
Here is a cost breakdown depending on the type of surgery, presented in a table:

Note: This information is taken from external sources and may vary.

Here is the city-wise price range of the surgery across India, presented in a table:

Note: This information is taken from external sources and may vary. 

Some hospitals in smaller cities may offer the surgery for as low as ₹45,000 to ₹1,30,000, but this often depends on the hospital’s infrastructure and the surgeon’s experience.

Why is ACL Surgery Required?

Doctors perform ACL surgery to treat ruptured or torn ligaments that affect the functioning of your knee. ACL tears may occur due to accidents, sports injuries, or sudden twisting movements. If surgery is not performed, patients may face the following issues:

●  Inability to perform regular activities
●  Persistent knee instability
●  Early development of osteoarthritis
●  There is a higher risk of further knee injuries, including meniscus tears and cartilage damage.

For athletes and physically active individuals, ACL reconstruction helps restore full knee function, prevent recurrent injuries, and enable a return to sports or demanding activities. 

In some cases, non-surgical management may be a suitable option. Still, surgery is generally the gold standard for complete ligament tears and for those seeking to regain high levels of knee stability and mobility.

What are the factors influencing the cost of ACL surgery?

Several factors contribute to the variation in ACL surgery costs across India. Here are some of them:

●  Type of Hospital

Premium hospitals in metropolitan cities typically charge more than smaller clinics or hospitals in tier-2 cities.

●  City and Location

Metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore have higher costs due to better facilities and higher living expenses, while smaller towns offer more affordable options.

●  Surgical Technique

Advanced minimally invasive or arthroscopic techniques, as well as robotic-assisted surgeries, are more expensive than traditional open surgery. The choice between autograft (using the patient’s tissue) and allograft (using donor tissue) also affects the cost, with allografts generally being more expensive.

●  Surgeon’s Expertise

Highly experienced orthopaedic surgeons, especially those specialising in sports injuries, may have higher consultation and surgical fees.

●  Implant and Graft Quality

The cost and quality of grafts and surgical implant procedures may influence the overall expense.

●  Hospital Stay and Post-operative Care

The duration of hospitalisation, the type of room (general vs. private room), and the extent of post-operative care and physiotherapy required can add to the cost.

●  Additional Procedures

If other ligaments or structures are injured and require repair, or revision surgery is needed due to a failed previous procedure, costs can rise substantially.

Is ACL Surgery Covered Under Health Insurance in India?

Most comprehensive health insurance policies in India cover ACL surgery, considering its medical necessities. Usually, the following costs are covered under a health insurance policy:

●  Pre-hospitalization Expenses

Medical costs incurred before hospitalisation (up to a predefined period) are covered by health insurance. It includes doctor consultations, diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs), prescribed medicines, preliminary procedures, and medical investigations.

●  Post-hospitalization Expenses

It covers the medical costs incurred after discharge (up to a predefined period), including follow-up consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, therapy sessions, and rehabilitation drugs.

●  Ambulance Charges

A health insurance policy typically covers transportation costs for emergency ambulance services to and from the hospital.

●  Daily Hospital Cash

It covers a fixed daily cash allowance during hospitalisation (regardless of actual expenses).

●  In-patient Hospitalization

Covers all hospitalisation costs due to illness/injury, including room rent (general ward/private), nursing charges, ICU fees, doctor/surgeon fees, and operation theatre expenses.

Most health insurance policies in India cover ACL surgery; however, patients should verify the specifics of their coverage. With its affordable pricing, skilled surgeons, and advanced medical infrastructure, India remains a leading destination for ACL reconstruction surgery for domestic and international patients. 

At Star Health, we offer coverage for ACL surgery under our Star Family Health Optima Insurance Policy. We also provide hassle-free claim settlements with reduced turnaround time across 14,000 network hospitals in India.

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