How to Choose the Right Surgeon for Your Knee Replacement: Tips for Choosing a Knee

Knee replacement surgery is a significant decision; choosing a knee surgeon is crucial to ensuring the best possible outcome. If done correctly, this procedure can dramatically improve your quality of life, so finding the best knee surgeon is essential. With so many surgeons in Singapore, how do you make the right choice? This guide will walk you through key factors to consider when selecting the right surgeon for your knee replacement.

1. Verify the Surgeon’s Credentials

The first step in choosing a knee surgeon is verifying their credentials. In Singapore, your surgeon should be accredited by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and listed on the Singapore Medical Council’s (SMC) Register of Specialists. This ensures they have met the necessary education, training, and competency standards for orthopaedic surgeries.

It’s also advisable to check if the surgeon has additional fellowship training in knee replacement surgery. This extra training can indicate a higher level of expertise in the specific area of joint replacement.

You can verify a surgeon’s registration and specialisation through the Singapore Medical Council’s website.

2. Experience and Specialisation Matter

Experience is a crucial factor in knee replacement surgery. Studies consistently show that surgeons who perform a higher volume of knee replacements generally achieve better outcomes. This is particularly relevant in Singapore, where knee replacement surgeries have increased due to an ageing population.

Ask your potential surgeon how many knee replacement surgeries they perform annually. Surgeons who regularly perform these procedures are likely to be more familiar with the nuances of the surgery, leading to better results. When finding the best knee surgeon, ensure they have substantial experience with cases similar to yours.

3. Hospital Affiliation and Quality of Care

The hospital where your surgery will be conducted plays a vital role in your overall outcome. Singapore is home to several public and private world-class hospitals known for their excellence in orthopaedic care. 

Consider the hospital’s reputation, the quality of its orthopaedic department, and its post-operative care services. A well-regarded hospital for orthopaedic surgery will have a lower rate of complications and a well-coordinated surgical team, contributing to a smoother recovery.

4. Reputation and Patient Testimonials

When choosing a knee surgeon, word of mouth and patient testimonials can be incredibly valuable. Ask friends, family, or your general practitioner (GP) for recommendations. Additionally, look for online reviews and testimonials from past patients on local health forums or review sites.

While reviews provide valuable insights into a surgeon’s reputation, it’s essential to consider a range of feedback to get a balanced view. Remember that experiences can vary, and it’s wise to focus on consistent themes in the feedback. Finding the best knee surgeon often involves reviewing positive and negative reviews to ensure a well-rounded perspective.

5. Communication and Comfort Level

Your surgeon’s communication style is crucial for a successful outcome. During your consultation, pay attention to how well the surgeon listens to your concerns and answers your questions. They should be able to explain the procedure, risks, and benefits in a way that is easy to understand.

In Singapore’s multicultural context, ensuring that you and your surgeon can communicate effectively in a common language is vital. If you’re uncomfortable with the language, consider bringing a family member to assist or asking if the clinic offers translation services. Your comfort level when choosing a knee surgeon goes beyond their technical expertise. You should also feel comfortable sharing your concerns with your knee surgeon. 

6. Assess the Surgeon’s Success Rates

Inquire about the surgeon’s track record with knee replacements. What is their success rate? How often do they encounter complications? While this information may not always be publicly available in Singapore, some surgeons may provide it upon request during consultations.

A surgeon with a strong track record of successful outcomes and low complication rates is often a reliable choice. Consider also asking about the surgeon’s experience with patients of your age group and health status, as these factors can influence outcomes. When choosing a knee surgeon, their past success rates and experience with similar cases should weigh heavily in your decision.

7. Consider Costs and Insurance Coverage

Knee replacement surgery in Singapore can be expensive, particularly in private hospitals. To minimise out-of-pocket expenses, choosing a surgeon within your insurance plan’s network is important.

In Singapore, most citizens and permanent residents can utilise MediSave and MediShield Life to cover part of the surgical costs. If you have private health insurance, check whether the surgeon and hospital are covered under your plan.

Always understand all the costs involved, including the surgeon’s fee, hospital charges, anaesthesia, and post-operative care. Some clinics and hospitals in Singapore offer package deals that can make the financial aspect more predictable.

8. Seek a Second Opinion

Before making your final decision, consider getting a second opinion. Seeking a second opinion from another orthopaedic surgeon is common and acceptable, especially if you have concerns about the recommended treatment or surgery.

A second opinion can confirm the necessity of surgery, provide alternative treatment options, or offer insights into different surgical techniques. This step can give you the confidence that you’re making the best decision for your health.

9. Post-operative care and Support

Post-operative care is critical to your recovery. Ask your surgeon about the follow-up care they provide. This should include regular check-ups, physical therapy sessions, and access to a support team for any questions or concerns during your recovery.

You can also check if the clinic offers comprehensive post-operative care plans, including rehabilitation services, which are crucial for regaining mobility and strength after knee replacement surgery. Your surgeon may also be able to refer you to physiotherapists who will help you regain your strength and mobility as you recover. 

10. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right during your consultations, it’s essential to address it. Your comfort and confidence in your surgeon are paramount to a successful surgery and recovery.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right surgeon for your knee replacement is a deeply personal decision that requires careful consideration of many factors. At Hip & Knee Orthopaedics, our team of experienced orthopaedic surgeons is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care tailored to your needs. Suppose you’re considering knee replacement surgery in Singapore. In that case, we invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss your options and how we can help you achieve the best possible outcome.