Knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, is a major operation that replaces a damaged knee joint with an artificial one. Many people in Pakistan need this surgery because of arthritis, injury, or long-term knee damage. However, the cost of knee replacement can vary a lot. In this article, we will explain how much it costs in Pakistan, what factors affect the price, and answer some common questions.
What Is Knee Replacement Surgery?
In a knee replacement surgery, the worn-out or damaged parts of the knee are removed and replaced with prosthetic (artificial) parts. The goal is to reduce pain and help the patient move more easily. There are two main types of knee replacement:
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): The entire knee joint is replaced.
- Partial Knee Replacement: Only the damaged part of the knee is replaced.
Average Cost of Knee Replacement in Pakistan
The cost of knee replacement surgery in Pakistan depends on many things, such as the hospital, the surgeon, and the type of implant. Here is a breakdown of typical cost ranges:
- According to BioFlex Pakistan, a total knee replacement usually costs between PKR 400,000 and PKR 550,000.
- In some welfare or public hospitals, cost may be less than PKR 300,000.
- At specialized private centers like Orthocenter:
- Surgery cost (surgeon + operating theater) is quoted at Rs 759,000.
- Implant cost (prosthetic) varies: for example, Zimmer or Smith & Nephew implants cost up to Rs 790,000 or more.
- For bilateral (both knees) replacement, private hospitals may charge over PKR 1.5 million or more.
- Some high-end hospitals offer all-inclusive packages (surgery, room, initial physiotherapy) — for example, Orthocenter has “Saver”, “Executive”, and “Premium” plans.
Why Do Costs Vary? — Key Factors
Several factors influence how much a knee replacement surgery costs in Pakistan:
- Type of Hospital
- Public / Government hospitals are often cheaper.
- Private hospitals are more expensive, especially well-known or large hospitals with advanced facilities.
- Premium hospitals or those offering “luxury” or medical-tourism packages cost even more.
- Surgeon’s Expertise
Experienced and highly skilled orthopedic surgeons charge more for their time and skill. - Implant Quality
- Basic implants made of metal and plastic are less costly.
- Imported or premium-brand implants (e.g., Zimmer, Smith & Nephew) are more expensive.
- The choice of implant strongly affects the total cost.
- Pre-operative Tests and Diagnostics
Before surgery, patients need tests like blood tests, X-rays, or MRI. These add to the cost. - Hospital Stay and Operating Room Charges
The cost includes using the operating theatre, paying for nurses, anesthesia, and hospital days. - Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy
After surgery, patients often need physiotherapy for weeks or months. These sessions can be costly. - Complications
If there are complications like infection, costs can rise dramatically.
Risks and Economic Issues
- Knee replacement has risks such as infection, blood clots, or implant loosening.
- A study showed that the cost of a revision surgery (because of infection) in Pakistan can be as high as PKR 1.78 million for complex cases.
- According to research, around 34% of patients refuse knee replacement because they cannot afford it.
- The total cost of a straightforward surgery (without complications) was found to be about PKR 390,000 in one hospital study.
How to Choose a Hospital and Surgeon
Here are some tips to help you make a good decision:
- Ask for a Detailed Quote
Request an itemized estimate. Ask for costs broken into surgeon fee, hospital stay, implants, diagnostics, and physio. - Compare Hospitals
Check both government and private hospitals. Sometimes public hospitals or welfare-run places are much cheaper. - Check the Implant Brand
Ask which implant brands are used. Some brands are more durable but cost more. - Verify the Surgeon’s Experience
Choose a surgeon with a strong track record in joint replacement. - Ask About Rehabilitation
Confirm how many physio sessions are included in the package, or whether you must pay extra later. - Explore Financial Help
Some hospitals offer subsidised care, charity programs, or payment plans.
Recovery and Long-Term Costs
- After surgery, patients may stay in hospital for 3–5 days or more, depending on their health.
- Physiotherapy is essential. It may cost between PKR 50,000 and PKR 150,000 depending on how much is needed.
- Full functional recovery can take several months, and long-term success depends on good rehab.
- An artificial knee (implant) can last 15–20 years or more, depending on type and quality.
Advantages of Getting Knee Replacement in Pakistan
- Lower Cost than Many Countries: For local patients or even medical tourists, Pakistan can be more affordable than many Western countries.
- Good Surgeons and Implants: Many leading hospitals use high-quality international implants (Zimmer, Smith & Nephew) and experienced surgeons.
- Medical Tourism Options: Some hospitals offer package deals that cover surgery, stay, and even hotel accommodation for patients from other countries.
FAQs
Q1: What is the cheapest place to get knee replacement in Pakistan?
- Some government or welfare hospitals may offer surgery for less than PKR 300,000.
- However, wait times may be long, and the choice of implants may be more limited.
Q2: Is knee replacement worth the cost?
- Yes, for many people. It can relieve long-term pain, improve walking, and restore daily activities.
- But you should also plan for rehabilitation and follow-up.
Q3: How long will the new knee last?
- A good-quality implant can last 15–20 years or more, depending on your activity and health.
Q4: Can I pay in installments or get financial help?
- Some private hospitals may offer payment plans.
- There are also charitable or government-assisted programs for low-income patients.
Q5: What if I get an infection after surgery?
- Infection is rare, but if it happens, the cost of treatment (revision surgery) can be very high.
- Proper hygiene, pre-surgery checks, and following doctors’ advice reduce this risk.
Conclusion
Knee replacement surgery Cost in Pakistan can cost anywhere from PKR 300,000 (at welfare hospitals) to well over PKR 1 million (in top private hospitals with premium implants). The price depends on many things: hospital type, surgeon, implant quality, and rehabilitation needs. If you are considering this surgery, it is very important to ask for a detailed quote, check the implant brand, and think about the cost of rehab. With good planning, knee replacement can greatly improve your quality of life.
