Hip and Knee Replacement

Planned joint replacement for international patients, coordinated end to end.

This page is general information, not medical advice. This service is designed for planned, elective orthopedic care. It is not an emergency service. Patients with acute trauma or urgent symptoms should seek immediate care locally.

What it is

Hip and knee replacement replaces a damaged joint surface with an implant. It is usually considered when joint pain and loss of function no longer respond to non-surgical treatment.

Why patients travel for this procedure

Patients contact us for two main reasons: waiting times for planned surgery in their home system, and the cost of the same procedure in private care. Whether either applies to you depends on your country, your policy and your clinical situation.

Typical inpatient stay

Primary hip or knee replacement typically involves an inpatient stay in the range of one to two weeks, followed by a rehabilitation period. Actual length varies by patient and is decided by the treating team.

Where it is performed

Surgery is performed at Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, where joint surgery (关节外科) — with hip surgery (髋部外科) organised separately is one of nine orthopedic sub-specialties. Clinical care is delivered by the hospital and its physicians.

About the hospital →

How we coordinate it

Cases follow our five-step process: enquiry and intake, specialist case review, treatment plan and insurance coordination, travel and surgery, then discharge and follow-up.

See how it works →

Insurance

Coverage for planned treatment overseas varies by policy and requires case-by-case confirmation. We support pre-authorization, guarantee of payment and claims documentation with your insurer or TPA.

Direct Answers

Is this an emergency service?

No. This service is designed for planned, elective orthopedic care. It is not an emergency service. Patients with acute trauma or urgent symptoms should seek immediate care locally.

Every case is reviewed by specialists before any travel is arranged. If specialist review concludes that cross-border referral is not appropriate, we say so and stop.

Content reviewed: 26 July 2026.

What orthopedic cases can be referred for joint replacement?

Planned, elective primary hip or knee replacement for advanced arthritis or joint destruction, where non-surgical treatment is no longer effective.

Suitability is decided case by case by the reviewing specialists, based on your records and imaging. Nothing on this page is a clinical recommendation for your situation.

Content reviewed: 26 July 2026.

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