Health Insurance Cover for Kneecap Surgery
Knee pain can strike anyone—young athletes, working professionals, or elderly people. It can make climbing stairs, walking, or even sitting difficult. When medicine does not work, doctors usually prescribe kneecap surgery. This surgery can repair injuries, joint problems, or worn-out cartilage.
But the procedure isn’t cheap, and the cost can stress you out. That is where health insurance comes in. It covers expenses arising from the surgery, such as hospitalization, doctor consultations, and rehabilitation.
Key Highlights
- Insurance typically covers surgery, hospitalization, and essential diagnostic tests.
- Knee replacement surgery and recovery costs are often included in most policies.
- Check exclusions like deluxe rooms or long-term physiotherapy.
- Partial knee replacement surgery may have faster recovery times and different coverage.
- Robotic-assisted surgeries like robotic knee replacement may also be covered in some plans.
Table of Contents
What’s Kneecap Surgery?
It is a procedure for fixing issues with the front component of your knee, particularly the patella (kneecap). Physicians perform this surgery when the kneecap becomes damaged due to injury, wear and tear, or arthritis. It helps reduce pain and makes it easier to move your leg.
In this surgery, doctors repair or replace parts of the kneecap. They also perform a complete knee replacement when the entire joint is affected.
Why Do You Need Kneecap Surgery?
- Knee pain that doesn't improve with medication or physical therapy.
- Swelling and stiffness around the knee joint.
- Previous knee surgeries requiring corrective procedures.
- Arthritis or cartilage damage affecting the kneecap area.
- Degenerative joint diseases cause damage to the kneecap and surrounding structures.
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What’s the Cost of Kneecap Surgery in India?
|
Procedure |
Estimated Cost |
|
Patella Realignment Surgery |
INR 100,000 – INR 300,000 |
|
Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF) for Patella |
INR 50,000 – INR 150,000 |
|
INR 70,000 – INR 250,000 |
|
|
Cartilage Restoration (Chondroplasty, Microfracture) |
INR 120,000–INR 180,000 |
|
Total Knee Replacement (TKR) |
INR 250,000 – INR 500,000 |
|
Partial Knee Replacement (PKR) |
INR 150,000 – INR 450,000 |
|
Bilateral Knee Replacement Surgery |
INR 400,000–INR 900,000 |
|
Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery |
INR 250,000 – INR 600,000 |
Why Consider Health Insurance for Kneecap Surgery?
Here’s why insurance is a smart choice:
- Covers High Surgery Costs: Helps pay for expensive knee-related treatments, reducing the money you spend out of pocket.
- Includes Hospital and Recovery Charges: Covers hospital stays, doctor fees, tests, medicines, and even physiotherapy after knee replacement surgery.
- Choose Better Care: Allows access to top hospitals and experienced doctors.
- Supports Future Treatment Needs: Covers the expenses of full or partial knee replacement surgery.
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Key Inclusions & Exclusions for Kneecap Surgery
Health insurance covers some parts of the surgery. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Usually Covered
- Surgery Costs: Includes anesthesia, knee replacement surgery, and operation charges.
- Hospitalization: Room rent (standard), ICU charges, and basic nursing care.
- Diagnostic Tests: X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans (advised by a doctor).
- Physiotherapy/Rehab: Post-op rehab for up to 30 days after total knee replacement.
- Consumables: Basic items like bandages and dressings (in some policies).
- Pre/Post-Hospitalization: Medical care up to 30 days before and 60 days after surgery.
Usually Not Covered
- Cosmetic or experimental treatments.
- Deluxe or private room upgrades (extra cost).
- Long-term physiotherapy beyond 30 days.
- Repeated tests not advised by a doctor.
- Some consumables, like gloves, syringes, or special equipment.
- Treatment outside the allowed pre/post hospitalization period.
Recovery Timeline and Lifestyle After Kneecap Surgery
Recovery after kneecap surgery takes time, but it is manageable with the right care and routine. Most people begin to feel better within a few weeks. Full recovery can take up to six months or more, depending on the surgery type and the person’s health.
In the first few days, pain and swelling are common. Doctors give medicine to manage pain. You may need crutches or a walker to move around. It’s important to rest but also to start light exercises early. These exercises help prevent stiffness and improve blood flow. By week two, your stitches or staples may be removed. You’ll also begin physiotherapy sessions. These sessions focus on improving movement and strength in your knee.
If you had a total knee replacement, your recovery will be slower compared to other surgeries. It can take up to 12 weeks to walk comfortably and 4 to 6 months for full recovery. On the contrary, healing is faster for a partial knee replacement. Since only one part of the knee is replaced, the pain is less, and movement returns more quickly. Many patients start walking on their own in 3 to 4 weeks, and full recovery usually happens within 3 months.
Your knees carry your journey. Don’t let pain pause your path. Investing in timely care and smart health coverage is a lifestyle upgrade.
