Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure aimed at fixing a torn knee cartilage. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of tough, rubbery cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between your shinbone and thighbone. It can be torn if you suddenly twist your knee while bearing weight on it. Opting for meniscus repair in Thailand can be an excellent decision, given the country's state-of-the-art medical facilities, experienced orthopedic surgeons, and the serene recovery environments it offers.
Please note that the prices provided are estimations and may vary based on various factors. Additionally, these prices do not include flights or accommodation.
All prices are in USD.
Meniscus repair is specifically aimed at mending the torn cartilage in the knee. The type of tear, its size, and location will influence whether a tear can be repaired or if the damaged section needs to be removed. Not all meniscus tears are suitable for repair. Those that occur on the outer edge (red zone), where better blood flow aids healing, are more likely to be repairable than those in tahe inner two-thirds (white zone) of the meniscus. The procedure is recommended to patients to alleviate pain, optimize knee function, and prevent complications like early-onset arthritis.
Preparations for a meniscus repair typically include a thorough medical evaluation, which may involve MRI scans to get a detailed image of the tear. Patients might be asked to cease certain medications and adopt specific dietary restrictions in the lead-up to the surgery. Physiotherapy may also be prescribed pre-operatively to strengthen surrounding muscles and promote a quicker post-operative recovery.
The surgery is typically done arthroscopically, using a camera to visualize the inside of the knee and small instruments to conduct the repair. The surgeon makes tiny incisions and inserts the arthroscope, then either stitches the tear together or trims away the damaged area, depending on the nature and location of the tear. The procedure is relatively short, often taking less than an hour.
Post-operative recovery varies depending on whether the meniscus was repaired or a portion was removed. If repaired, the knee might be immobilized for several weeks to protect the stitching. Physical therapy is essential, focusing on regaining strength and mobility. Most patients can expect to resume daily activities within 6-8 weeks, but sports or rigorous activities might be off the table for 3-4 months.
Undergoing meniscus repair in Thailand can be cost-effective. The procedure typically ranges from $3,500 to $6,500, though this can vary based on the hospital and surgeon's experience. It's essential to remember that these figures don't account for travel and accommodation expenses.
MedPark Hospital is a state-of-the-art healthcare facility that opened in 2020. With a spacious 90,000 square meter building and over 30 departments, the hospital is equipped to handle a wide range of patient needs. It has 550 beds for inpatients and 300 examination rooms, all outfitted with advanced medical equipment to provide the highest quality of care.
Learn more →Bangkok Hospital was one of Thailand's first private hospitals when it was opened in 1972. It has since grown to one of the most well-known hospital networks in the Asia-Pacific area and is a popular destination for both Thais and foreigners for its medical services. Bangkok Hospital has 53 locations across Thailand of which 14 have JCI accreditation.
Learn more →Bumrungrad was founded in 1980 and is Southeast Asia's largest private hospital. It is one of the world's most popular medical tourism destinations, treating over 1.1 million patients annually of which many are overseas patients. Bumrungrad was the first hospital in Asia to receive JCI accreditation and has since received awards from numerous other agencies for its medical services.
Learn more →Samitiviej Hospital is a renowned healthcare institution in Thailand that is known for its exceptional medical services and advanced facilities. It has multiple hospitals, including a children's hospital, and treats many international patients. Samitiviej has received numerous awards and accolades, including JCI accreditation, and is a popular choice for top-quality medical care.
Learn more →Meniscus repair in Thailand typically costs between $3,500 to $6,500, depending on the specific hospital and the surgeon's expertise.
Recovery time can vary. If the meniscus is stitched together, expect 3-4 months before returning to sports. For less invasive trims, you may be back in action in 6-8 weeks.
Generally, waiting 7-10 days post-operation before flying is advised to minimize risks like deep vein thrombosis. Always consult with your surgeon before making travel plans.
For a procedure like meniscus repair, planning a stay of at least 10 days to 2 weeks in Thailand would be prudent. This allows for pre-surgery consultations, the operation itself, and immediate post-op care.