Orthopedic Surgery in india
India is a popular destination for Nigerians seeking orthopaedic care due to its world-class facilities, skilled medical practitioners, and cost-effective services compared to many advanced countries.
This comprehensive guide provides essential information about orthopaedic surgery in India, specifically for Nigerian patients. It aims to assist with understanding and navigating your options and covers subtopics, including types of orthopaedic surgeries, top hospitals for orthopaedic surgeries in India, costs of surgery, a step-by-step guide to planning medical trips to India for orthopaedic surgery, and frequently asked questions.
Understanding Orthopaedic Surgery
Orthopaedic surgery is a medical specialty focused on treating, diagnosing, and preventing conditions or injuries that affect the musculoskeletal system. These surgeries address issues related to bones, muscles, joints, cartilage, and soft tissues.
These procedures can range from minor surgeries (arthroscopy, ligament repair and tendon release procedures) to major surgeries (joint replacement, shoulder surgery, spinal surgery, hand surgery). They are often effective solutions to help manage or treat:
- Pain (joint, muscle, bone).
- A muscle, cartilage or ligament tear.
- Breaks and fractures.
- Arthritis.
- Bursitis.
- Tumors.
- A congenital (present at birth) malformation.
Common Types of Orthopaedic Surgeries
Here are the most common types of orthopaedic surgeries:
- Joint Replacement Surgery: This procedure involves replacing damaged joints in the hip, knee, and shoulder with artificial ones made from plastics, ceramics, or metals.
- Hip Replacement: Hip replacement entails removing damaged parts of the hip joint and replacing them with new components, made from metal, ceramic, and hard plastics. They help to reduce pain and improve movements. Hip replacement is also called hip arthroplasty.
- Knee Replacement: Knee replacement surgery involves replacing parts of injured or worn-out knee joints as well as damaged bone with new components made from metal and plastic. A knee replacement surgery is considered after the surgeon evaluates the range of motion, stability, and strength of the knee. Knee replacement is also called knee arthroplasty.
- Paediatric Orthopaedic Surgery: Addresses congenital conditions like scoliosis, knock-knee, and clubfoot. The goal is to correct deformities early and to improve children’s growth and well-being.
- Arthroscopic Surgery: This is recommended for patients with joint pain. It’s a minimally invasive surgery that involves inserting an arthroscope (small camera) into the joint. Recovery times are generally shorter than those for traditional open surgery.
- Spinal Surgery: This critical area aims to treat patients with severe spinal conditions, such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and nerve compression.
- Sports Medicine Surgery: Sport medicine surgery is focused on treating sports-related injuries, this surgery is essential for enabling athletes to recover and return to their sports. Procedures include rotator cuff repair, tendon and ligament repair, and ACL reconstruction.
- Fraction Repair Surgery: This surgery is performed on major fractures to align and stabilise broken bones, allowing them to heal properly.
Source: Apollo Hospital
Why Choose India for Orthopaedic Surgery?
India’s top orthopaedic hospitals offer excellent medical care, skilled surgeons, and affordable prices. Here are the main reasons why many choose India for orthopaedic surgery:
- Affordable Surgery: The cost of orthopaedic surgery in India is cheaper compared to many Western countries, making it an economical choice for those seeking high-quality care at a lower price.
- Experienced Doctors: Many surgeons in India have studied and trained at leading institutions in Western countries and prestigious universities in India, such as the University of Delhi and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. These doctors are often affiliated with various medical fellowships in the USA, UK, Europe, and India.
- High-Quality Medical Care: Top Indian hospitals meet international standards. They’re equipped with advanced diagnostic equipment and facilities compared to Western countries. Some renowned orthopaedic hospitals in India, such as Max Healthcare, Apollos Hospital, Fortis Hospital, and Artemis Hospital, provide comprehensive services, including pre-operative evaluations, surgery, post-operative care, and rehabilitation.
- No Language Barrier: Medical practitioners and other service staff in most of these hospitals speak English, Most of these doctors studied and trained in English speaking. However, individuals not used to their accent may have difficulty understanding. A translator can be employed for easy communication.
- Personalised Support: These hospitals provide customised treatment plans and support throughout the entire process from pre-surgery to post-surgery.
- Beautiful Sites: Besides standard healthcare, India boasts stunning landscapes, historical sites, and rich traditions. Once you have fully recovered, consider visiting attractions like the Taj Mahal, the Gateway of Mumbai, and the Red Fort for a memorable experience.
Top Hospitals for Orthopaedic Surgery in India
When choosing a hospital for orthopaedic surgery, consider the following institutions known for their world-class orthopaedic care:
- Apollo Hospital: India’s leading orthopaedic care provider, with state-of-the-art facilities and skilled specialists. Apollo Hospital is recognised as the best hospital for hip replacement, knee replacement, sports injuries, hand surgery, and pediatric orthopaedics, with a network of 40 hospitals across the country.
- Max Institute of Musculoskeletal Sciences: Part of Max Healthcare, this institution is one of the leading orthopaedic hospitals in India. It offers comprehensive care for pain management, arthritis diagnosis, sports medicine, paediatric orthopaedics, and various joint problems. Max Institute has a digital operating suite and provides advanced treatments such as computer-assisted joint replacement surgery, arthroscopic surgery, and total knee and hip replacement.
- HCG Hospitals: Known for excellent health outcomes, HCG Hospitals focus on modern treatment approaches and advanced technologies for orthopaedic issues. Their facilities include a surgical ICU, HEPA filters, and a 9” high-frequency II TV.
- Artemis Hospitals: The Artemis Joint Replacement and Orthopaedics Centre provides a range of services, including foot and ankle reconstruction, hand surgery, spinal surgery, shoulder and knee surgery, sports medicine, and joint replacement. They utilise advanced technologies such as MRI, 64-slice CT scans, and Physical Therapy units.
Source: Artemis Hospital
- Fortis Memorial Research Institute: This top orthopaedic hospital focuses on subspecialties such as orthopaedic trauma, oncology, rehabilitation, spine treatment, foot and ankle treatment, and hand surgery. Fortis employs a variety of treatment techniques, including physical therapy, minimally invasive procedures, and orthopaedic surgery
- Manipal Hospitals: Manipal Hospitals addresses all bone-related conditions, from fractures to spinal injuries and provides modern facilities with quality healthcare.
Source: Manipal Hospitals
Orthopaedic Surgery in India Compared to the USA and other countries
Orthopaedic surgeries in India are significantly more cost-effective compared to those in the US and other countries. Here is a breakdown of the prices of orthopaedic surgery in the US, UAE and India:
| Procedure | USA | UAE | India |
| Hip Replacement | $49,000 – $57,000 | $9,500 – $21,000 | $9,000 – $10,500 |
| Knee Replacement | $30,000 – $60,000 | $8,000 – $20,000 | $5,500 – $6,500 |
| Spinal Fusion | $80,000 – $120,000 | $6,000 – $17,500 | $6,500 – $9500 |
Note: These are the current prices at the time this article was written. They are subject to change.
Source: Medigence
How to Choose the Right Hospitals and Doctors
When choosing an orthopaedic hospital for surgery. Begin by researching the reputation of the hospitals and surgeons. Here is what to consider before choosing an orthopaedic hospital and surgeon:
- Accreditation: Search for hospitals accredited by recognised international organisations.
- Doctor’s Experience: Investigate the doctor’s qualifications and experience before making the medical trip.
- Patient Reviews: Read reviews from previous patients to assess the quality of the hospital’s medical services. Visit the hospital’s websites for more information.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Medical Trip to India For Orthopaedic Surgery
Embarking on orthopaedic surgery in India involves several steps. It is crucial to conduct thorough research about the hospitals, surgeons, accommodation, and how to navigate the city. Follow this step-by-step process for guidance:
Step 1 – Research Top Orthopaedic Hospitals: Start by looking for hospitals with internationally accredited orthopaedic departments. Check their surgeon’s qualifications and patient reviews and also read about testimonials from international patients. Here is how to research:
- Online search: Google search using keywords such as “ top orthopaedic hospitals in India”, and “best orthopaedic hospitals for foreigners” and also visit the hospital websites.
- Recommendation: Seek recommendations from your doctor or medical tourism agencies for trusted referrals.
Step 2 – Organise Your Medical Documents: Request for recent relevant medical records such as blood tests, X-rays, MRI/CT scans, and doctor’s notes. These documents are crucial for assessment by healthcare professionals in India before your arrival.
Step 3 – Cost Estimation and Financial Budgeting: Contact the shortlisted hospitals from research or recommendations for detailed estimates covering surgery fees, pre-surgery and post-surgery care, and implant costs (if needed). Make enquiries on additional costs like flights, accommodation, local transport, and visa fees and also confirm accepted payment methods.
Step 4 – Apply for a Medical Visa: Research the visa requirement for a medical journey to India. Once you have understood the process, get an invitation letter from your chosen Indian hospital detailing the nature of your treatment. Then submit your visa application with medical documents at the Indian embassy. Check current travel advisories; in India, medical visas allow longer stays compared to tourist visas.
Step 5 – Book Travel and Accommodation: Plan your travel and accommodation, the hospital where you will be receiving treatment can guide you or the recommended medical tourism agency. Many top hospitals in India offer affordable guest houses, and some partner with nearby hotels to provide accommodation options for international patients.
Step 6 – Arrival and Surgery: Arrive a few days before surgery for pre-operation tests and rest. For pre-surgery, carry out the final health checks and anaesthesia consultation. Then undergo the orthopaedic surgery as planned.
Post-Surgery Care for Orthopaedic Surgery: After the operation, you will be hospitalised for days or weeks based on the surgery performed. This rehabilitation phase plays a key role in mobility and reducing pain. The following post-surgery care tips can help alleviate pain and ensure proper recovery:
- Start rehabilitation exercises early to help with quick healing.
- Diligently attend physical therapy sessions both in India and at home for successful rehabilitation.
- Keep the incision area dry, clean and properly covered to prevent infections.
- Schedule regular check-ups with an orthopaedic specialist to monitor healing.
- Reduce swelling using ice packs to quicken recovery.
Source: Noor Medicare
Here are additional factors to consider for Nigerians seeking orthopaedic surgery in India:
- Travel Documents: Ensure you have a valid passport and the necessary travel documents for a medical trip. It’s important to work with an accredited medical travel agency like Medvisit to avoid any documentation issues.
- Language Barrier: Some hospitals in India may have language barriers. Check if they have English-speaking medical practitioners, interpreters or translation services.
- Cultural Differences: India is known for its cultural diversity. Respect cultural differences and take the necessary precautions to ensure a smooth experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- When should I see an orthopaedic surgeon?
Consult an orthopaedic surgeon if you experience persistent joint or muscle pain, have sustained an injury affecting your musculoskeletal system, or are having difficulty moving.
- Can I get a second opinion before surgery?
Yes, it is advisable to seek a second opinion. This can provide more information to help make informed decisions.
- How long does it take for orthopaedic surgery to heal?
Recovery time varies based on the individual and the type of surgery. Orthopaedic surgeons provide personalised recovery plans that may include rehabilitation and physical therapy.
- Do I always need surgery for all orthopaedic conditions?
No, surgery is not always the first option. Orthopaedic surgeons typically use other healing methods, such as medicine and exercise, before recommending surgery.
- How do I prepare for orthopaedic surgery?
Complete the necessary tests, follow the doctor’s pre-surgery instructions, plan for post-surgery care, and discuss health concerns with your orthopaedic surgeon.
- Do orthopaedic surgeons treat children, too?
Yes, some orthopaedic surgeons specialise in addressing musculoskeletal issues in children and are known as pediatric orthopaedic surgeons.
- How can I find the right orthopaedic surgeon for my condition?
Seek referrals from your doctor, research the surgeon’s experience and specialisation, and check for patient reviews online.
- What are the risks of orthopaedic surgery?
Risks depend on the type of surgery performed. Before any surgical procedure, orthopaedic surgeons discuss potential complications such as blood clots, infections and complications related to anaesthesia.
- Will my Nigerian health insurance cover my treatment in India?
Most Nigerian insurance plans do not cover care in other countries, but some expensive plans might. It is important to confirm with your insurance provider if they cover care abroad.
- Can my family travel with me to India?
Yes, your family can come with you. They will need to obtain special visas. Most hospitals, hotels, and other places accommodate your family members.
Conclusion
Orthopaedic surgery in India is cost-effective and offers high-quality options compared to many Western countries. India’s top hospitals provide excellent treatment and are patient-centric. If you are a Nigerian dealing with conditions such as breaks and fractures, muscle pain, arthritis, or congenital malformation, India is a wise and affordable choice. We understand that there are risks involved in orthopaedic surgery, such as poor hospital choices or counterfeit implants, but choosing a reputable medical tourism company like Medvisit will mitigate these risks.
Why Medvisit?
Medvisit is Nigeria’s premier medical tourism company, dedicated to facilitating access to superior healthcare solutions for individuals across the nation. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including medical travel coordination, concierge medicine, medical visa application and international second opinion services.
At Medvisit, we have partnered with leading orthopaedic hospitals in India, including Apollo Hospital, Fortis Hospital, Max Hospital, HCG and Artemis Hospital, amongst others.
We can assist you with the following
- Finding the right hospital for your orthopaedic surgery
- Facilitating your visa invitation letter facilitation
- Travel arrangements
- Appointment coordination with Indian hospitals
- Emergency services and language support
- FRRO registration and visa extension aid
- Post-surgery care and examination
Let’s help you take the first step towards a pain-free life. Call us on 08182522015 or send an email to [email protected] today.