Knee Replacement Surgery in Singapore
Knee replacement surgery in Singapore is safe, reliable and effective in treating severe knee pain that has failed other treatment options.
Discover cutting-edge robotic knee replacement options at Hip & Knee Orthopaedics, Singapore. Our clinic boasts the latest, proven implants with robust registry data, accommodating most Shield Panels and Corporate Insurances, all within MOH fee benchmarks.
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Navigating Total Knee Replacement Surgery in Singapore in 2024
If you have been dealing with chronic knee pain, you understand how disabling it can be. The idea of knee replacement in Singapore might feel daunting, but you are not alone in this journey. Numerous state-of-the-art medical facilities and experienced knee surgeons can assist you from diagnosis to recovery, allowing you to reduce swelling, regain muscle strength and improve overall mobility and function. This detailed guide covers every stage of the process, giving you the information necessary to make informed decisions.
Is knee replacement surgery the solution you need for your knee pain? Read on to find out more.
Key Takeaways
• Chronic knee pain in severe osteoarthritis patients can be successfully managed with knee replacement surgery.
• Singapore boasts advanced medical facilities with skilled knee surgeons. Our fellowship trained knee surgeons can help you achieve your goals.
• Understanding the different types of knee replacement surgeries helps in making informed decisions.
• Costs of knee replacement surgery in Singapore in private hospitals can vary from $30,000 to $40,000, but can be covered by Shield plans.
• Financial planning, including insurance and funding options, is essential for cost management.
What is Osteoarthritis of the Knee?
Osteoarthritis of the knee is a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects older adults, although it can occur in younger individuals as well. It is characterised by the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. Progressive deformity, such as bow leg deformity, can also occur. Osteoarthritis can result from ageing, severe knee injury (such as a damaged cartilage), or obesity, and it often leads to chronic knee pain and discomfort. Apart from osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout can also affect the knee joint.
Managing Osteoarthritis Symptoms before Knee Replacement Surgery
Before undergoing surgery, effectively managing knee arthritis symptoms is crucial in delaying or even avoiding the need for surgical intervention.
• Early intervention can delay the need for surgery. By making lifestyle changes, reducing weight, and avoiding inappropriate exercises, you can effectively manage even severe symptoms.
• Doctors often recommend physical therapy as part of early intervention. Through the help of a physical therapist, you can strengthen the muscles around your knee, including those supporting the thigh bone and shin bone, thereby significantly improving function and reducing pain.
• Weight management plays a significant role in alleviating stress on the knee joints. Carrying excess weight leads to increased pressure on the knees, which can exacerbate pain and speed up joint degeneration. By reducing excess weight, you help ease the burden on your joints, and maintain a healthy knee.
• Pain relief medications can provide temporary relief from osteoarthritis symptoms. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to manage pain and inflammation. While pain medication can help, they are not a long-term solution and should be used under medical supervision. Intra-articular injections may also relieve symptoms, allowing patients to participate in physiotherapy to strengthen the lower limbs.
Who Needs Knee Replacement Surgery?
The following patients may require knee replacement surgery:
- Patients who experience severe pain in the knee
- Daily intake of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to control pain
- Individuals with reduced function or limited walking distance due to knee pain, such as difficulty climbing stairs
- Depressed mood as a result of knee pain
- Risk of falls due to painful knees
Types of Knee Replacement Surgeries
Understanding the different knee replacement surgeries can help you make a more informed decision about your treatment options.
- Total Knee Replacement
- Unicompartmental Knee Replacement
- Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement
1. Total Knee Replacement
A total knee replacement surgery, or total knee arthroplasty, is specifically designed to address severe joint damage at the knee. For many patients, this surgical procedure offers long-term relief from knee pain and restores mobility. During a total knee replacement procedure, the worn surface of the knee is removed, and the bone ends are replaced with artificial knee components. A plastic insert is then locked to the tibia component, allowing for effective knee joint resurfacing. Some surgeons also resurface the small kneecap, while others do not. The duration of knee replacement surgery typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, and most patients are able to go home 3 to 5 days after spending time in the recovery room following the procedure.
This surgery is suitable for patients who have severe arthritis affecting more than one compartment. The National Joint Registry from the United Kingdom shows excellent implant survivorship at 15 years. Most patients who undergo total joint replacement experience lasting positive outcomes, as the procedure can relieve pain and restore function.
2. Unicompartmental Knee Replacement (Partial Knee Replacement)
Partial knee replacement surgery is an option for patients who have arthritis confined to a single compartment of the knee (usually the medial side of the knee). Other criteria include no morbid obesity (BMI > 40), no marked stiffness in the knee, intact cruciate ligaments, and no significant angular deformity. This procedure is also commonly referred to as “partial knee resurfacing surgery”, “unicompartmental knee replacement”, “unicondylar knee arthroplasty”, “unicondylar knee replacement”, or colloquially called a “uni”.
During a unicompartmental knee replacement, a shorter incision is made that only exposes the medial compartment. After that, the diseased cartilage of the medial compartment is removed and replaced with a metal component. A small insert is then placed between the two metal components, achieving the resurfacing of the medial compartment. Patients can walk after the procedure and return home usually the day after surgery.
This option often preserves more natural knee movement, as it involves only replacing the affected parts of the knee rather than the entire joint. In this procedure, the cruciate ligaments are preserved. This can result in a more natural-feeling knee post-surgery. Patients benefit from a smaller incision site and less blood loss, as these minimally invasive techniques reduce trauma to the surrounding tissues. This can enhance the surgical experience, lead to a smoother recovery process, and result in less postoperative pain.
However, this procedure is associated with higher re-operation rates and may not be suitable for everyone. Arthritis progression of the other compartment in the future may require a conversion to a total knee replacement. It is therefore essential to discuss this with your surgeon to make sure that you are suitable for the procedure. In Singapore, most of the established brands for partial knee replacements are available. The surgery can also be done robotic-assisted (MAKO).
3. Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
Robotic knee replacement surgery is revolutionising knee replacement surgery, offering enhanced precision and personalised surgical plans. This technology uses a robotic arm to allow for precise adjustment of bone cuts, increasing accuracy and reducing outliers in the field of knee replacement. It also provides real-time feedback, allowing for adjustments during surgery for optimal outcomes. This technology is particularly useful in partial knee replacement due to its increased technical demand and accuracy, needed to ensure consistent and ideal outcomes.
In Singapore, there are at least two brands for robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery (Zimmer Rosa, Stryker Mako). These systems may require additional preoperative imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans of the knees, to enable preoperative surgical planning for each patient. However, these techniques may lead to additional costs, and your surgeon should discuss this with you prior to proceeding with the surgery.
Some Other Non-Replacement Surgeries That Have Been Used to Manage Knee Pain:
• Arthroscopic Debridement
• High Tibial Osteotomy
• Revision Knee Replacement
Use the Knee Pain Location Chart to identify the cause of your knee pain and its type.
Postoperative Care and Recovery Process
The journey to full recovery after joint replacement surgery involves careful postoperative care and a structured rehabilitation plan.
• Postoperative care starts immediately after surgery, with the medical staff helping you manage pain and monitor your initial recovery. Pain management is a critical component, as it allows you to engage in physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises without significant discomfort. Some swelling is expected in the weeks after knee replacement surgery, but it will improve over time.
• Rehabilitation is key to regaining knee function and involves customised physical therapy exercises tailored to your specific needs. These exercises strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and help regain a range of motion.
• Patients must follow a structured recovery plan consistently to ensure quicker and more effective rehabilitation. Adhering to the prescribed exercise regime, attending therapy sessions, and following post-op care instructions are vital for optimal recovery.
• Caregivers play a crucial role in home recovery, providing support and assistance during the first few weeks post-surgery. Having a dedicated caregiver, whether a family member or a hired professional, can contribute to enhanced recovery.
• Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor progress and address any complications early. These appointments with your orthopaedic team help ensure that the knee is healing correctly and allow for timely intervention if any issues arise.
Total Knee Replacement Surgery Cost in Singapore and Funding Options
Understanding the financial aspects of knee replacement surgery is crucial for planning and making informed decisions.
• Knee arthroplasty costs can vary depending on several factors, including the type of surgery, robotic vs. conventional knee replacement, cost of knee implants, hospital choice, duration of stay, and type of ward stay. In Singapore, the cost may range from $35,000 to $45,000 or more, depending on these variables.
• Patients should enquire about comprehensive costs upfront. This includes the surgeon’s fees, implant costs, hospital stay, general anaesthesia, and postoperative care expenses. Being aware of the full financial scope helps in budgeting and avoiding any surprises later on.
• Many insurance plans cover knee replacement surgery in Singapore. Patients should verify their coverage details with their insurers to understand what is included and what out-of-pocket expenses might be expected. It’s essential to check the policy specifics to ensure you get the most out of your insurance plan. Medisave can also be used for this procedure. Currently, our clinic is on the panel of several Shield plans, including NTUC Incomeshield, Great Eastern Health Connect, HSBC Life Shield and Singlife Shield. We are also on Prupanel Connect and able to do surgeries at panel rates for Prushield patients at Mount Alvernia Hospital. For AIA, our clinic is on the extended panel. We will provide each patient with a detailed financial counselling sheet and apply for the necessary pre-authorisation before the procedure so our patients can focus on their recovery. In addition, we are onboard a broad range of Corporate Insurance providers to aid you in your journey.
• Financial planning is crucial for a seamless experience. Discussing payment plans, funding options, and insurance details with your healthcare provider and financial advisor can help you navigate the expenses effectively. This foresight ensures you can focus on recovery rather than worrying about the financial aspects.
Summary
From diagnosis to recovery, navigating knee arthroplasty involves understanding the various options, managing preoperative care, choosing the right type of surgery, and planning for postoperative recovery. With Singapore’s advanced medical facilities and skilled orthopaedic surgeons, patients can expect top-notch orthopaedic surgery and successful outcomes.
• Knee replacement surgery is an effective solution for chronic knee pain.
• Our doctors are subspecialty trained in knee replacement surgery, and our clinic will assist you from consultation and insurance pre-authorisation to recovery.
• Various types of knee replacement surgeries cater to different needs.
• Financial planning and understanding costs are crucial for a seamless surgical experience.
Are you ready to take the next step towards pain-free mobility? Contact us at +65 8884 1642 or email us at hello@hipkneeortho.com.sg.
The major advantages are:
• Dr Tan Sok Chuen and Dr Adrian Lau are fellowship trained surgeons skilled in knee replacement surgeries in Singapore.
• Our clinic adheres to MOH benchmarks and is onboard with most major Private Integrated Shield Plans.
• We will provide the necessary preoperative counselling and apply for the required pre-authorisations prior to surgery.
Knee replacement surgery can effectively alleviate pain and improve function. At the same time, it can also help to correct significant knee deformity. It is especially suitable for patients with significant knee pain due to bone-on-bone arthritis of the knee.
Complications are rare after joint replacement surgery for knee replacement, and it is considered a safe procedure. The degree of risk associated with this surgery can vary from person to person. Risks include infection at the surgical wound, neurovascular complications, anaesthetic risks, fractures, and implant wear or loosening, which may necessitate revision. Our clinic will provide you with adequate counselling, offer patient education for wound care and advice, and give you ample time for consideration. Overall, this surgery has very high success and satisfaction rates.
There is no ideal age for knee replacement surgery in Singapore. We seldom offer it to patients younger than 50 years old, although some may require it before that age. You should consider knee replacement if it is difficult for you to sit, walk, or perform other activities without experiencing knee pain, and radiographs show significant wear in the knee compartments.
The majority of knee replacement patients are between the ages of 50 and 80. Patients over 80 years old can also safely undergo this procedure after a complete physical examination at the clinic.
Yes, most patients can achieve full recovery and function after a total knee replacement. The recovery period after surgery varies from person to person, influenced by several factors such as the patient’s age, overall health, and the type of joint replacement surgery they underwent. However, Medical News Today reports that most patients can expect to return to normal daily activities within 6 to 12 weeks post-surgery with their new knee. The timeline extends further for strenuous sports, such as hiking or heavy lifting. It usually takes about 3 to 6 months for patients to resume these activities, and this is contingent upon approval from a healthcare provider.
You will definitely experience some pain after your surgery, but your surgical team will do everything possible to keep it manageable and minimal.
You might receive a nerve block before your operation, and your orthopaedic surgeon might use a long-acting local anaesthetic during the procedure to help you with pain relief. You will also be prescribed pain medications after your surgery.
Once you recover from surgery, your knee should be significantly less painful than before. However, some patients may continue to experience discomfort during the recovery period.
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Orthopaedic Surgery Specialist
Orthopaedic Surgery Specialist
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#09-21/38, Singapore 329563
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