What is The Estimated Cost of Knee Replacement?

Knee Surgery Costs Explained: From Procedure Type to Insurance

Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged knee joint is replaced with artificial components (prosthesis) to relieve pain and restore mobility. It is commonly recommended for patients suffering from severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic joint injuries. 

While the surgery can dramatically improve quality of life, one of the most commonly asked questions is: How much does knee replacement surgery cost in India?

Here is a detailed guide on knee replacement costs, contributing factors, types, insurance coverage, post-surgery expenses, and cost-saving options in the Indian healthcare ecosystem.

What is the Average Cost of a Knee Replacement In India?

Knee replacement surgery prices in India vary depending on a number of elements, including the type of hospital, city, implant brand, surgeon's experience, and whether the replacement is partial or total. The standard range is:

Since 2017, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has put restrictions on knee implant prices in India, thereby drastically lowering overall costs.

What Affects the Cost of Knee Replacement?

There are various cost factors  involved in determining the cost of knee replacement: 

1.Type of Hospital and Location

Due to infrastructure and demand, metropolitan areas such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad often have higher surgical expenses. Cities classified as Tier 2 and Tier 3 have relatively lower rates. The top hospitals performing knee replacement are:

●  Apollo Hospitals
●  Fortis Healthcare
●  Manipal Hospitals
●  AIIMS (Delhi)
●  Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore

2.Type of Knee Replacement Procedure

The type of knee replacement procedure chosen by the patient will also impact the overall price:

• Unilateral vs. Bilateral: Bilateral surgery (both knees) is costlier but can save money in the long term by avoiding a second hospitalization.
• Partial vs. Total Replacement: Partial replacement involves replacing only the damaged part of the knee, making it a more cost-effective option.
• Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgery: This modern technology increases precision but can add ₹50,000–₹1 lakh more to the overall cost.

3.Implant Material and Brand

Premium implant brands, such as Johnson & Johnson, Zimmer Biomet, and Stryker, are more expensive. Common materials used include:

●  Metal-on-plastic (most common)
●  Ceramic-on-ceramic
●  Oxinium implants

4.Surgeon's Fee and OT Charges

An experienced orthopaedic surgeon may charge higher consultation and surgical fees, often resulting in fewer complications and faster recovery.

5.Room Category and Hospital Stay

Room types (shared, private) directly impact the final bill. Hospital stay typically lasts 3–5 days post-surgery.

6.Pre-Surgical Tests and Post-Surgery Rehab

Tests such as blood work, ECG, X-rays, and MRI, as well as physiotherapy and rehabilitation post-discharge, can cost an additional ₹20,000–₹50,000.

What is Included in the Total Knee Replacement Cost Package?

A standard package in private hospitals generally includes the following:

●  Pre-surgery consultation and diagnostics
●  Surgery charges and anaesthesia
●  Cost of the implant
●  Hospital stay (3–5 days)
●  Medicines and consumables
●  Post-op physiotherapy (inpatient)

Some hospitals provide packages with bundled components for easier insurance claims.

Does Health Insurance Cover the Cost of Knee Replacement?

Most comprehensive health insurance plans in India cover knee replacement surgery under hospitalization coverage. However, the extent of coverage depends on:

●  Type of policy
●  Sum insured
●  Waiting periods
●  Pre-existing disease clauses

Are There Government Schemes That Support Knee Replacement in India?

Yes, several government initiatives aim to make knee replacement surgery more affordable. They include:

1.Ayushman Bharat – PM-JAY

●  Offers coverage up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
●  Covers orthopaedic surgeries, including knee replacements.
●   Available at empanelled private and government hospitals.

2.State-Specific Schemes

States like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra offer free or subsidized surgeries under their state health insurance schemes.

What is The Cost of Post-Surgery Care and Physiotherapy for Knee Replacement?

Even after hospital discharge, patients incur additional costs, including:

●  Home physiotherapy (₹500 – ₹1,000 per session)
●  Mobility aids (walker, knee braces – ₹3,000 to ₹7,000)
●  Follow-up consultations (₹500 – ₹2,000 per visit)
●  Pain management medicines (₹2,000 – ₹5,000 per month initially)

Post-op recovery spans 3 to 6 months, depending on age and fitness level.

Are There Ways To Reduce The Cost of Knee Replacement Surgery?

Here are some practical tips:

●  Choose an empanelled hospital covered under your health plan for cashless claims.
●  Compare implant brands—generic or Indian brands cost less but offer similar results.
●  Check for full-package deals in corporate hospitals.
●  Utilize medical loans or EMIs offered by hospitals and financial partners.
●  Consider government hospitals or medical colleges for low-cost or free surgeries.

Is Medical Tourism For Knee Replacement Popular In India?

Yes, India is a global hub for orthopaedic surgeries due to:

●  Affordable costs (⅕ of Western prices)
●  Skilled surgeons
●  Hospitals with NABH accreditation
●  Less waiting times

Patients from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa often visit Indian hospitals for total knee arthroplasty.

Considering all the aspects involved, knee replacement surgery can be a significant financial outlay. Thus, having a health insurance policy that covers surgery costs, pre- and post-hospitalization expenses, diagnostic tests, and other related expenses can help significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. 

Check out the policies from Star Health for comprehensive coverage at affordable premiums, cashless treatment in 14,000+ network hospitals, telemedicine services, ambulance cover and more. 

Call us today for more details!