The ultimate guide to Knee Replacement in Bangkok

Last fact-checked: 9 October 2020

Looking at knee replacements in Bangkok? Find out how to book your treatment with Medical Departures and take advantage of our Best Price Guarantee when booking at any of our partner clinics in the Thai capital. 

Am I Suitable for a Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement surgery (also known as arthroplasty) replaces a damaged or diseased knee joint with an artificial (prosthetic) joint. If you suffer from pain or lack of movement due to a problematic joint, the surgery will give you a new lease of life.

Knee replacement surgery is routinely carried out for knee pain associated with arthritis. Although it tends to be older people who most routinely have the surgery, adults of any age can have knee replacement surgery. However, the younger you have a knee replacement, the more likely you are to require additional surgery later on.

A knee replacement should last for 15-20 years, providing it is not put under too much strain, and is looked after properly.

Osteoarthritis is the most common reason for knee replacement, but other medical conditions, including haemophilia, rheumatoid arthritis, gout and injury may also require knee replacement surgery. If you have undergone steroid injections and physiotherapy and your mobility or pain has not been reduced enough for you to take part in everyday activities without discomfort, then knee replacement may be an option.

Why Should I Choose Bangkok for Knee Replacement Surgery?

Bangkok offers expertise, state-of-the-art facilities and unsurpassed customer care. It is also a fascinating and exciting city to spend time in pre or post-surgery, with all the everyday amenities you would expect, as well as everything else that makes it so popular with tourists and holidaymakers.

One of Bangkok’s hospitals (Bumrungrad International) was the first in the country to receive Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation–a prestigious award demonstrating high levels of service. This doesn’t mean that other hospitals and clinics that aren’t JCI accredited don’t offer high-quality services, but JCI accreditation does serve as a reliable pointer of quality.

Thanks to globalization and the fact that medical training is becoming more standardized throughout the world, and the newest and best techniques adopted quickly, medical staff here are as capable of performing surgery to the same high standards of any of their counterparts in Western countries.

What patients will discover is that attention to clinical and service detail is often much better here. Waiting times are kept to a minimum and the Thais make every effort to ensure your comfort, with cozy, relaxing waiting rooms and free services such as wifi access throughout.

Why Book with Medical Departures?

Medical Departures is pleased to partner with some of the best clinics in Bangkok, and we make it our business to ensure we are happy with the standards employed before we list them on our website. We conduct personal visits, and background checks of doctor qualifications and professional memberships, as well as legal/criminal records. All of this, alongside patient testimonials, gives us - and you - a clear picture of the clinics and doctors with confirmed information so that you can decide for yourself what’s right for you.

This information is available underneath each individual clinic listing with high-definition clinic photos, giving you the opportunity to look before you book. Take a look now at three of the best clinics in Bangkok for knee replacements:

• Yanhee Hospital Health & Beauty
• Phyathai 2 International Hospital
• Piyavate International Hospital

What’s Involved in the Procedure for a Knee Replacement?

Depending on the exact condition of the knee, there are generally two types of surgery:

• A total knee replacement, where both sides of the knee joint are replaced; or 
• A partial (half) knee replacement, when only one side of the joint is replaced.

The surgery is usually carried out under a general anaesthetic, or with a spinal epidural–which numbs your body from the waist down. The procedure takes between one and three hours to complete, depending on whether you are having a full or partial knee replacement.

The surgery involves replacing the worn ends of the bones in the knee joint with artificial joints (prosthesis), usually made with metal or plastic, and which have been measured to fit your knee. In a total knee replacement (TKR), both sides of the joint are replaced, whereas in a partial knee replacement (TKR) only one side is replaced.

The advantage of having a PKR, providing that you are suitable, is that movement of the knee is more natural, as well as the fact that your recovery period is shorter. The disadvantages are that it doesn’t always relieve pain as well as a TKR, and doesn’t last as long. It is less suitable for an active, young person as it will wear out quicker, requiring further surgery.

How Long Is the Recovery Time for Knee Replacements?

The recovery time varies for each patient. After surgery, you will be encouraged to get up and about as soon as possible (usually within 12-24 hours) as this helps to reduce the swelling and speed up the recovery process.

Some people are able to walk on the day of their surgery. Initially, you will probably need a walking frame or sticks to get about, and you will likely be given physio exercises to strengthen the knee and help with mobility. You will likely experience discomfort for a week or so, and you will usually be allowed home after a couple of days or less for a PKR. You will be able to drive again when you can bend your knee enough to control the car properly, normally after around one month.

Over the next three months, you should only engage in light activities and housework and gradually increase mobility thereafter. You should steadfastly follow any recommended physical therapy. It may take a year or so before your knee is fully recovered.

How Much Do Knee Replacements in Bangkok Cost Compared to Australia or New Zealand?

Knee replacements in Bangkok cost approximately AUD $13,000 compared almost double that, at AUD $25,0000 in Australia. [Please note: these prices are approximate estimates based on international data, calculated at the time of writing.]

Getting Started with Medical Departures

Browse our full list of orthopaedic surgeons in Bangkok here. See below to book or reach out to our Customer Care Team who can provide 24-hour assistance and answer any questions you have about knee replacements in Bangkok.  Or if you are ready to book your appointment, you can do so right here any time of the day or night, at no charge to you.

Sources:

Joint Commission International. Website accessed: 9 October 2020. https://www.jointcommissioninternational.org/

International Association of Orthopedists. Website accessed: 9 October 2020.  http://iaorthopedics.com/

Ishidou, Y et al. Osteoarthritis of the hip joint in elderly patients is most commonly atrophic, with low parameters of acetabular dysplasia and possible involvement of osteoporosis. March 2017. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5362671/

Knee Replacement. Mayo Clinic. 29 December 2017.  https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/knee-replacement/about/pac-20385276