Knee pain can be debilitating, affecting everything from walking and climbing stairs to engaging in sports and daily activities. In Singapore, where healthcare standards are globally respected, knee surgery has become a safe, reliable, and accessible treatment option for individuals suffering from chronic knee conditions. Whether you’re a local resident or an international patient considering medical tourism, Singapore offers world-class Knee surgery in Singapore options delivered by highly skilled orthopaedic specialists using cutting-edge technology.
Overview of Knee Surgery
Knee surgery refers to any surgical procedure performed on the knee joint to treat injuries, degenerative diseases, or deformities. It can range from minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery to full joint replacement. Common types of knee surgeries include:
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Knee Arthroscopy
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Partial or Total Knee Replacement
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Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction
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Meniscus Repair
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Cartilage Restoration
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Knee Osteotomy
Each procedure is tailored to the patient’s specific condition, severity, and lifestyle needs.
Why Choose Singapore for Knee Surgery?
1. World-Class Medical Facilities
Singapore is home to some of Asia’s best private hospitals and public medical institutions, including:
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Mount Elizabeth Hospital
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Gleneagles Hospital
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National University Hospital (NUH)
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Singapore General Hospital (SGH)
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Parkway East Hospital
These hospitals are equipped with advanced surgical technologies such as robotic-assisted surgery, 3D imaging, and enhanced recovery pathways.
2. Expert Orthopaedic Surgeons
Singapore’s orthopaedic surgeons are internationally trained and highly experienced in performing various types of knee surgeries. Many have practiced or trained in the UK, USA, or Australia and are members of esteemed medical societies like the Singapore Orthopaedic Association and the International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine (ISAKOS).
3. High Standards of Patient Care
Singapore’s healthcare system is known for its exceptional quality, short wait times, and patient-centered care. From diagnosis to post-operative rehabilitation, patients receive personalized attention with an emphasis on safety, comfort, and long-term outcomes.
4. Multilingual Support
Singapore is a multicultural and multilingual country. Hospitals provide interpreters and medical liaisons fluent in English, Mandarin, Malay, Tamil, and other languages, making communication smooth for international patients.
5. Medical Tourism Infrastructure
Singapore is a leading medical tourism hub. International patients benefit from dedicated services such as airport transfers, medical concierge, fast-track appointments, and comfortable accommodation options.
Common Conditions Requiring Knee Surgery
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Osteoarthritis – Degeneration of the knee joint, often requiring partial or total knee replacement.
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Sports Injuries – Tears in ligaments or cartilage, common in athletes and active individuals.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis – An autoimmune condition causing joint inflammation and damage.
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Post-Traumatic Injuries – Fractures or ligament tears due to accidents or falls.
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Congenital or Structural Deformities – Conditions like bow legs or knock knees that may require correction.
Types of Knee Surgery in Detail
1. Knee Arthroscopy
A minimally invasive surgery using small incisions and a camera to diagnose and treat internal knee issues. Often used for:
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Meniscus repair or removal
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Ligament reconstruction
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Removal of loose cartilage or bone fragments
Recovery Time: 2 to 6 weeks
Hospital Stay: Day surgery or 1 night
2. Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
The damaged cartilage and bone in the knee are replaced with artificial components. Ideal for severe arthritis or long-term injury.
Recovery Time: 6 to 12 weeks
Hospital Stay: 3 to 5 days
3. Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)
Only the damaged part of the knee joint is replaced. Suitable for patients with damage in one compartment of the knee.
Recovery Time: 4 to 8 weeks
Hospital Stay: 2 to 3 days
4. ACL Reconstruction
A torn anterior cruciate ligament is replaced using a graft, usually from the patient’s own hamstring or patellar tendon.
Recovery Time: 6 to 9 months (including physiotherapy)
Hospital Stay: 1 to 2 days
Cost of Knee Surgery in Singapore
Costs may vary depending on the procedure, surgeon’s expertise, hospital choice, and insurance coverage.
| Procedure | Estimated Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Arthroscopy | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| ACL Reconstruction | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Partial Knee Replacement | $20,000 – $30,000 |
| Total Knee Replacement | $25,000 – $35,000 |
Note: Prices for foreigners may be higher. However, packages for medical tourists often include consultation, surgery, hospital stay, and post-operative care.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Post-surgical recovery is a critical part of knee surgery success. Singapore offers excellent rehabilitation services including:
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Physiotherapy clinics
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Hydrotherapy
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Custom orthotic fitting
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Strength and flexibility training
Patients can expect to regain mobility gradually, often with a tailored physiotherapy plan over several weeks or months, depending on the surgery type.
How to Book Knee Surgery in Singapore
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Choose a Hospital or Specialist: Use online directories or get referrals.
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Pre-Surgical Consultation: Schedule a consultation to assess your condition.
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Medical Reports and Imaging: Bring any prior X-rays or MRIs.
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Cost and Insurance Discussion: Confirm what’s included and what’s covered.
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Visa and Travel Arrangements (for international patients): Singapore offers special medical visas if required.
Final Thoughts
Knee surgery in Singapore combines clinical excellence, compassionate care, and advanced technology to offer patients optimal recovery and long-term outcomes. Whether you’re a senior citizen suffering from arthritis, an athlete with a torn ligament, or someone dealing with knee injuries, Singapore provides safe, efficient, and highly professional surgical solutions tailored to your needs.
