Choosing the Right Destination for Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad: Essential Tips & Considerations

Why Choose Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad

When you're enduring debilitating pain and have to face a long wait just to see a specialist, it can be incredibly frustrating and challenging to manage your daily life. The constant discomfort may prevent you from performing even the simplest tasks, affecting your work, relationships, and overall well-being.

According to the Fraser Institute's yearly publication on medical wait times, the median wait time from a GP referral to seeing an orthopedic specialist in Canada in 2023 was 15.4 weeks, slightly shorter than the 16-week wait in 2022.

Furthermore, the average wait time for a Hip Replacement surgery in Canada varies anywhere from 6 months to one and a half year, after getting a clearance for surgery. Those in severe pain but still waiting for clearance may face even longer delays!

In such situations, seeking timely and effective orthopedic surgery and treatment becomes a priority, leading many to explore options beyond their local healthcare system. One option is to consider hip replacement surgery abroad, where quicker access to care and advanced medical facilities offer a faster path to relief and recovery.

Not only significant waiting times, but exorbitant costs of surgery for the uninsured are other major factors why people opt for hip replacement surgery abroad. One can expect to pay anywhere from $ 45,000 to 75,000 for a Total Hip Replacement surgery in the US, depending on factors like geographic location, type of implant needed, length of postoperative stay, type of surgical center, etc. These sky-high costs can significantly burden patients, leading many to consider alternative options, such as hip replacement surgery abroad, where quality care is often available at a fraction of the price.

Factors To Consider for Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad

While hip replacement surgery abroad can be an excellent option, it requires careful due diligence to ensure that the facility, medical team, and overall treatment plan meet high standards of safety and quality. The various factors that one needs to consider before finalizing for Hip Replacement Surgery abroad are:

• Credentials of the Surgeon- The operating surgeon is the cornerstone of any surgery. It is important to check the credentials of the surgeon- the number of years of experience, Board certification, Qualification, if he/ she has had international training and has received advanced training in Hip replacement surgery.
• Credentials of Medical Facility- Next to the surgeon, comes the medical facility where the surgery would be performed. The accreditation of the hospital/ clinic by a recognized international healthcare organization, the infrastructure, etc holds paramount importance.
• Technique of Hip Replacement Surgery- Various techniques can be used for Hip Replacement Surgery, like Direct anterior approach, Lateral approach, Hardinge approach, Moore approach, Posterior approach, etc. Each surgeon has his preference for the technique however it is a good idea to discuss what technique would be used for your specific case.
• Assessment Pre-Surgery- The outcome and success of any surgery depends on how thorough the assessment has been and the various protocols followed pre-, peri, and post-operatively. It is prudent that thorough assessments are done pre-surgery, including evaluation of X-rays/ MRI and other investigations to judge the candidacy for surgery. Once that is established, careful consideration needs to be given to Pre-anesthesia check-ups, etc., to make sure the patient is fit to undergo anesthesia and there are no complications later on.
• Implant Type & Quality- The various hip replacement devices generally used are Metal-on-Polyethylene, Ceramic-on-Polyethylene, Ceramic-on-Ceramic, and Ceramic-on-Metal. In general, the surgeon identifies the hip implant that provides the greatest benefit and the lowest risk for each patient and should discuss the pros and cons of each, with the patient.
• Quality of Care and Services- Due diligence is required to check the quality of services offered, including patient-to-staff ratios, nursing care, and the availability of advanced medical technology.
• Follow-up care- Follow-up care plays a huge role in the successful outcome of a Hip Replacement Surgery abroad. It is prudent to consider how follow-up care will be managed, especially if complications arise after you return home. Ensure there is a clear plan for communication with your surgeon post-surgery.
• Rehabilitation- Rehabilitation always plays a crucial role in any orthopedic surgery and must be given its due importance for a Hip Replacement Surgery abroad. It is wise to check in advance whether or not the surgical facility offers comprehensive rehabilitation programs.
• Surgery and Associated Costs- The cost of course is one of the biggest factors when deciding on the destination and surgical facility. Not only is the surgery cost important, but also the associated costs like rehabilitation charges, lodging and boarding, travel costs, etc.

Top Countries for Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad

Over the years, a lot of countries have gained prominence as top destinations for Hip Replacement Surgery abroad, some of these are:

1. Germany: Germany is well-known for its top-tier healthcare system and state-of-the-art medical technology, making it a prime choice for hip replacement surgery abroad. German orthopedic clinics provide outstanding care, employing innovative techniques and high-quality materials in their procedures. However, the downside is the cost of the surgery. Germany may be quite expensive for many with the cost of Single Hip Replacement surgery varying from € 22000-25000 or US $ 24,000-27000.
2. South Korea: Of late South Korea has come out as a leading contender among Medical Tourism destinations. It is also a popular country for hip replacement surgery abroad due to its cutting-edge technology. Korean orthopedic clinics offer modern, state-of-the-art facilities, with many surgeons having international training. The major flip side however is the language barrier. Most people do not speak English so communication can be difficult.
3. India: India is quickly earning a reputation for providing outstanding hip replacement surgery, combining advanced technology with highly skilled orthopedic surgeons at very affordable rates. The average cost of a Unilateral Hip Replacement surgery in India is around US $ 5000, which is less than one-tenth the price in the US, that too without compromising on the quality of care. Indian orthopedic clinics offer a variety of hip replacement options with the biggest strength being Indian surgeons.

FAQs For Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad

1. How long do I need to stay after my Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad?

It is generally advisable that one stays for at least 2 weeks after a unilateral and 3 weeks after a bilateral Hip Replacement Surgery abroad. This period is sufficient for surgery, immediate rehabilitation, and initial recovery.

However, each patient has different and unique requirements, and your surgeon would tailor the treatment plan to meet your specific needs, ensuring the best possible outcome for your recovery.

2. What is the recovery process after Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad?

The recovery process after hip replacement surgery varies for each individual depending upon his/ her age, co-morbidities, and activity level pre-surgery, however, patients typically stay in the hospital for 3-5 days following the procedure. Physical therapy usually begins shortly after surgery to help restore mobility and strengthen the hip. IV and Oral Pain medications are also generally prescribed to manage any pain and discomfort.

Most patients can return to normal activities within six to eight weeks, though full recovery may take several months.

3. What precautions do I need to follow after going back home?

Your surgeon will give detailed instructions to follow after going back home, it is very important to follow them religiously. This includes:

• Instructions for wound care, medication
• Avoiding strenuous activities and lifting heavy weights
• Using walker, cane, or crutches as advised to help with mobility
• Avoiding certain movements initially like bending at the hip beyond 90 degrees, crossing legs, or twisting your leg inward or outward
• Home modifications such as installing grab bars in the bathroom
• Regular Physical and Occupational Therapy
• Maintaining a Healthy Diet and Lifestyle

4. What are the risks associated with Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad?

Like any surgical procedure, hip replacement surgery comes with certain risks, irrespective of where it is done. Some of the common risks associated with Hip Replacement Surgery are:

• Infection: This can occur at the incision site or inside the joint itself. To reduce this risk, antibiotics are typically administered before and after surgery and it is pertinent that the patient completes the course of medication.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Blood clots may form in the legs and pose a serious threat if they travel to the lungs. To minimize this risk, blood thinners are often prescribed. It is also important that some form of mobility is initiated soon after surgery. Early movement, such as gentle leg exercises or short walks, helps improve blood circulation and reduces the risk of blood clots forming in the legs.
• Nerve Damage: Nerves may be affected during surgery, causing numbness or weakness in the leg. While this is usually temporary, permanent nerve damage is very rare.

5. What is the lifespan of a hip replacement?

The lifespan of a hip replacement depends on various factors, including the type of implant used, the activity level and lifestyle of the patient before surgery, co-morbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, etc., and the overall health of the patient. Typically, hip replacements last between 15 and 20 years, but advancements in technology and materials have led to some implants being designed to last even longer.

Affordable Hip Replacement Surgery in India with IndiCure Health Tours

Choosing to undergo affordable hip replacement surgery abroad in India with IndiCure Health Tours, one of the most trusted medical tourism facilitators offers a comprehensive, safe, and highly personalized medical experience. With access to world-class hospitals, highly experienced orthopedic surgeons, and state-of-the-art technology, patients can be assured of top-quality care at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries.

IndiCure takes care of every aspect of the journey, from consultations and medical appointments to travel arrangements and accommodations, ensuring a stress-free experience. Their commitment to patient satisfaction, safety, and professionalism makes them a trusted partner for anyone considering hip replacement surgery abroad.

By combining affordability with quality medical care, IndiCure Health Tours makes it possible to regain mobility and improve quality of life without compromising on the standards you deserve through their joint surgery packages.

Get in touch with IndiCure Health Tours today and start your preparations for your medical tour for affordable hip replacement surgery abroad in India.