Knee and hip replacement in China
China's large public hospitals perform joint replacements and other orthopedic surgery every day. For international patients, the main draws are shorter waits and lower costs, partly because the prices of artificial joints fell sharply after national bulk purchasing.
Who it may suit
- People who have been advised to have a knee or hip replacement and face a long wait at home
- People paying for private surgery who want to compare costs
- People with other orthopedic problems — spine, sports injuries, fractures that healed badly — who want a specialist opinion
You need to be fit enough for surgery and for a long flight. The hospital's surgeons decide whether surgery is right for you after examining you.
Why implants cost less in China
Since 2021, China's national bulk purchasing program has negotiated prices for artificial hips and knees across public hospitals, and implant prices have come down noticeably. Your total bill still depends on the hospital, the implant, the length of your stay and your route (regular care or international department).
How it works
- Before you travel: we send your X-rays, MRI and reports to the orthopedic department, and ask whether they are likely to see you for surgery. The hospital decides.
- Consultation and tests in China: the surgeon examines you and orders pre-surgery tests. Surgery is scheduled if appropriate.
- Surgery and hospital stay: usually 3 to 7 days in hospital after a joint replacement.
- Early rehabilitation: physiotherapy starts in hospital, often from the day after surgery.
- Before flying home: a check by the surgeon, and advice on when it is safe to fly and how to reduce the risk of blood clots on the flight.
How long, and how much
- Length: the surgeon advises after the consultation. Your stay includes tests, surgery, the hospital stay and a check before flying; we plan it with you.
- Hospital costs: each hospital sets its own prices; the total depends on your treatment.
- Our fees: a comprehensive package (7–10 days, including a surgery day and inpatient support) usually fits. Extra days are charged at our standard rates.
Risks and realistic expectations
- All surgery carries risks, including infection and blood clots. Your surgeon will explain the risks for you before you sign consent; your escort translates that conversation.
- Recovery takes months, not days. Most of it will happen at home, so arrange physiotherapy and a doctor to follow you there before you travel.
- Long flights after surgery raise the risk of blood clots. Follow your surgeon's advice on timing, movement and any preventive treatment.
- If a problem arises after you return home, your local doctors will be the first to treat you. We give you full records to make that easier.
How we support you
- We prepare your case and ask the department before you travel.
- Your escort is with you at the consultation, at consent, on the day of surgery (with your family while they wait), and visits you every day in hospital.
- We arrange a discharge plan: check-ups, medicines, when to fly, and wheelchair assistance at airports.
- You leave with a summary in English or French, your implant details, and all your records for your local doctor.
Your escort does not diagnose or prescribe. Your treatment is decided by the hospital's doctors, with you.
Before you travel
- Recent X-rays and MRI as image files
- Reports from your doctors at home, and your medicine list
- A physiotherapist and doctor at home who will follow you after you return
- Loose clothing and flat, secure shoes
Questions
Which implant will I get? Hospitals offer several brands, both imported and Chinese. The surgeon explains the options and prices; you decide.
Can my companion stay with me? Usually yes. Rules differ by ward; we check for you.
Will my insurance pay? It depends on your policy. We prepare the documents your insurer may ask for. Can I use my insurance?
Talk to us about joint surgery
Send us a short description of your problem. We'll suggest where to go and how long to plan — free.