What is the Typical Cost of a Knee X-ray?

Knee X-ray Cost in India – Price Breakdown and Key Factors

The cost of a knee X-ray can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the site of the exam (hospital vs. private practice), the number of views requested (AP, lateral, skyline), and the technology used (digital vs. standard X-ray). 

X-rays are reliable, inexpensive diagnostic tools that visualize internal body structures, especially bones. A healthcare professional may request an X-ray for knee injuries to identify fractures, dislocations, arthritis, and other orthopedic issues. They aid in quick decision-making and efficient treatment monitoring.

If you or a loved one is planning to undergo a knee X-ray, read on for a comprehensive guide to typical costs and other key aspects.  

What is the Average Cost of a Knee X-ray in India?

In India, the average price of a knee X-ray can range from ₹200 to ₹1000, depending on several factors like:

1. Number of Views Obtained: Standard knee X-rays usually consist of an AP (anteroposterior) view and a lateral view. If your doctor orders additional views (oblique, skyline, or weight-bearing views, for example), the costs will be higher. 
2. Technology Used: In some areas, the cost of digital X-rays is slightly higher than that of traditional film X-rays, although digital is rapidly becoming the preferred choice.
3. Clinic Location: Prices in metropolitan cities and larger, established hospitals are generally higher than prices in smaller towns or standalone diagnostic centers. 
4. One Knee or Both Knees: A bilateral X-ray is, of course, going to cost more than an X-ray of one knee.

A general price range looks like this:

Note: Prices will tend to vary based on the clinic, technology used, technician’s expertise, etc. 

Furthermore, the difference in knee X-ray pricing will vary throughout the major cities. In Delhi, for example, the costs will vary from ₹200–₹595 for a single knee, and for both knees (AP view), the pricing may start at approximately ₹250. 

In Mumbai, for example, the X-ray costs for a single knee view here can range from ₹210–₹760 and for both knees (AP and Lateral view) from approximately ₹480–₹900.

What are the Types of Knee X-rays Available in India?

In India, as in any other country, various types of knee X-rays are performed to examine different parts of the knee joint. The distinct types of X-rays your doctor may order will depend on your symptoms and what they are trying to assess.

Standard Views

The standard views are the basic knee X-rays that are most often performed. They include:

1.Anteroposterior (AP) View 

The front-to-back of your knee is where the X-ray beam is pointed when capturing the Anteroposterior (AP) View. It shows how the femur, tibia, fibula, and patella are all positioned together, as well as the joint space. 

This view helps detect fractures, dislocations, arthritis, and bone formations. Also, this view can be weight-bearing (standing) to assess the joint space under the load of your body weight, which is valuable for assessing arthritis.
 

2.Lateral View 

An X-ray image obtained with the beam pointing from the side of the knee is called a lateral view. This perspective shows the relationship between the patella and the femur, allowing for the identification of fractures in the patella, femur, or tibia from a different angle. 

Additionally, this view helps assess the presence of fluid in the joint, known as effusion. In cases of trauma, a horizontal beam lateral view may be obtained while the patient is lying supine to better visualize any fluid levels that might indicate a fracture. 

Specialized Views 

Specialized views are supplementary views obtained for specific reasons to provide a more detailed visualisation of certain areas of the knee. They include:

1.Oblique Views 

The oblique views are obtained with the knee rotated to 45 degrees (internal and external rotation). This view will help visualize fractures or arthritic changes that may not have been demonstrated on the AP and lateral views (specifically tibial plateaus or fibula).

2.Skyline View  (Sunrise or Tangential View) 

The skyline view is a specialized view that focuses exclusively on the patella and the trochlear groove in the femur (the groove where the patella slides). It is taken with the knee flexed at selected angles (typically 30, 45, or 60 degrees), and will be useful to evaluate: 

●  Whether or not the patient has a patellar tracking problem 
●  Dislocation of the patella 
●  Fracture of the patella

Several variations exist, including Merchant's view and Laurin's view, which are very similar and differ only in patient positioning and beam angles. 

Apart from this, there are several other knee X-ray views like:   

●  Tunnel View (Intercondylar Notch view)
●  Weight-Bearing Views (Standing AP and Rosenberg View) 
●  Stress Views
●  Bilateral Knee X-rays

Does Star Health Insurance Cover the Cost of a Knee X-ray?

Yes, Star Health provides coverage for all types of diagnostic tests, like X-rays, MRIs, blood tests, etc., if they are needed for diagnosing an injury or illness. However, the extent of coverage will tend to differ across plans. 

Thus, it is customary to review the policy documents before you opt for a knee X-ray to get a clear idea of how much of the costs will be covered. If you are looking for a health insurance plan that enables you to get comprehensive coverage for major illnesses, diagnostic services, and cashless treatment in more than 14,000 hospitals, look no further than Star Health.  

Get in touch with us today for further details!