Knee & Hip Replacement
Start with your symptoms, previous treatments and available X-rays. Ask an orthopedic specialist whether joint replacement or another approach is appropriate. Your coordinator confirms the responsible surgeon and treating facility before an appointment is booked.
No reports yet? You can still start an enquiry. Ask a coordinator which records the specialist needs.
Who this is for
This pathway is designed for international patients seeking specialist evaluation in Orthopedics. We focus on clarity of options and realistic planning rather than promises.
Procedures & sub-specialties
- Knee replacement assessment
- Hip replacement assessment
- Review after previous joint replacement
- Rehabilitation and return-home planning
- Arthroscopy and sports injury assessment
Required medical documents
- Knee or hip X-rays and reports, if available
- Symptoms, walking limitations and previous treatments
- Previous operation reports and implant details, if available
- Current medications and allergies
Don't have everything? Send what you have. The medical team will let you know what else is required.
Review process
- 1Confidential enquiry
- 2Confirmation of the orthopedic surgeon and hospital
- 3Specialist review of symptoms, imaging and alternatives
- 4Written treatment, rehabilitation and cost plan
- 5Individual follow-up and travel clearance
Joint replacement: questions before travelling
Use these questions to prepare for a specialist consultation. The operation, implant and recovery plan are decided individually after assessment.
Prepare these details for the specialist. Ask your coordinator how to share medical records securely.
- Existing X-rays and reports
- Symptoms and limits on walking or daily activities
- Previous treatment and operation summaries
- Medicines, allergies and other health conditions
- Help available at home during recovery
Assessment and choices
Does knee or hip pain mean I need a replacement?
No. The surgeon reviews your symptoms, mobility, examination and imaging. Non-surgical treatment may remain appropriate. Discuss the expected benefit and limitations of surgery before deciding.
Which records should I prepare?
Prepare available X-rays, reports, previous operation details and a medication list. Describe what you can no longer do comfortably. The surgeon may request further examination or tests before confirming a plan.
Which risks should I discuss?
Discuss infection, blood clots, stiffness, persistent pain and possible further surgery. Hip replacement also carries a risk of dislocation. Risks and implant choice depend on your circumstances; no result is guaranteed.
Recovery and travel planning
Does hospital discharge mean I have recovered?
No. Rehabilitation continues after discharge, and knee recovery can take several months or longer. You may need walking aids and help at home. Ask for a written physiotherapy, wound-care and follow-up plan; the treating team must advise when travel is appropriate.
What should my written estimate cover?
Ask for separate costs for the surgeon, implant, hospital, anaesthesia, tests, rehabilitation and follow-up. Confirm which accommodation and transfers, if any, are included, and how changes or complications would be handled. An enquiry is not a booking.
Symptoms that need urgent medical attention
- Sudden chest pain or shortness of breath
- New calf pain or swelling after surgery
- Fever, increasing wound redness or discharge
Seek urgent local medical care for worrying symptoms after surgery. Do not wait for a travel coordinator to reply.
Sources
Updated: 2026-10-21. General patient information; individual advice comes from your treating team.
Joint replacement is major surgery. Infection, blood clots, persistent pain and further surgery are among the risks to discuss. The surgeon decides suitability; implant choice, recovery and fitness to travel depend on your assessment. No outcome can be guaranteed.
Doctors leading this pathway
Specialists who review and lead Orthopedics cases at Unimed.
