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The Ultimate Guide to Orthopaedics in Mexico

Orthopaedics content image

The Ultimate Guide to Orthopaedics in Mexico

How Much Does Orthopaedic Surgery Cost in Mexico?

Undoubtedly, expenses associated with joint replacement surgery in the United States can be exorbitant, often posing a financial challenge even with health insurance coverage. This financial strain prompts many individuals facing mobility issues to explore alternative treatment options abroad. 

Orthopedic surgeries, and other medical procedures, are significantly more affordable in Mexico compared to the US and Canada, often due to lower overhead costs, labor expenses, and different healthcare system structures.

Here are the price comparisons showing the average costs for total joint replacement surgery in Mexico vs the US and UK:

 Knee Replacement (USD)Hip Replacement (USD)Shoulder Replacement (USD)
United States$30,000 - $45,000$30,000 - $50,000$20,000 - $30,000
United Kingdom

$15,000 - $20,000

 

$12,000 - $20,000 $11,000 - $20,000 

 

Mexico

$6,500 - $12,000$9,000 - $12,000$7,000 - $10,000

Please note: These prices were estimated at the time of writing; for updated figures, check out our individual clinic listing pages

INTRODUCTION

The Ultimate Guide to Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico

Rediscover the joy of movement and save thousands of dollars on joint replacement surgery. Don’t let knee, hip, or shoulder pain keep you from living your fullest life. Reclaim your freedom without emptying your wallet by getting affordable, high-quality joint replacement surgery in Mexico at 50%-70% less than the cost of surgery back home.

Why settle for expensive treatment when world-class orthopedic surgery performed by skilled surgeons awaits you overseas? Book your appointment online and experience a seamless medical journey through short wait times and personalized care designed to improve your joint health, step by pain-free step. Imagine hiking in the woods, strolling through bustling markets, or enjoying your favorite activities again without any pain. 

At Medical Departures, we’re here to help you find the most effective orthopedic solution through our network of verified surgeons. Explore top-notch hospitals in Mexico and embrace a future free from joint pain. 

Continue reading to discover how much North American patients save on orthopedic surgeries in Mexico. 

Why Choose Mexico for Orthopedic Surgery? Is it Safe?

Choosing to undergo orthopedic surgery in Mexico is safe and effective when selecting a medical facility from our recommended partners. Each facility featured on our platform went through a comprehensive background verification process. We are committed to connecting you with reputable establishments for your medical needs–rest assured that you will receive quality care while enjoying significant cost savings. 

Other than cost, here are some potential reasons why North Americans might consider getting joint replacement surgery in Mexico:

Quality Healthcare Facilities: Mexico has experienced significant growth in medical tourism, and many healthcare facilities are equipped with modern technology and high standards of care. 

 - Experienced Surgeons: Mexico is home to many highly skilled and well-trained surgeons who may have received their education and training in the United States or other Western countries. 

 - Shorter Wait Times: In most cases, patients experience shorter waiting times for joint replacement surgery in Mexico. This is beneficial for individuals seeking timely medical care as delaying treatment can worsen joint damage.

 - Combination of Medical Procedure and Relaxation: Some patients choose to have joint replacement surgery in Mexico as it allows them to combine their medical procedure with recovery in a relaxing environment.

 - Facility Accreditation: Most of our partner healthcare facilities are accredited by international accrediting bodies, such as the Joint Commission International (JCI). This ensures that the facility adheres to high standards of safety and quality.

 - Accessibility: Mexico is geographically close to the United States and Canada, making it a convenient destination for North Americans seeking medical care as proximity can reduce travel time and expenses.

Booking an appointment through Medical Departures ensures access to premium healthcare providers and secures the best prices available. Please contact our Customer Care Team if you have any questions.

What Are the Benefits of Orthopedic Surgery?

Joint replacement surgery can offer a multitude of benefits for individuals suffering from damaged or worn-out joints, particularly impacting their mobility and overall quality of life.

It is an orthopedic procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in joints that have been damaged by injury, arthritis, or other degenerative conditions. The most common joints undergoing replacement are the hip and knee. The surgery is often recommended for those experiencing severe joint pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility that hasn't responded well to non-surgical treatments. 

Here is what most patients experience after joint replacement surgery:

 - Reduced Pain and Discomfort: The primary reason many individuals undergo joint replacement is to significantly reduce chronic pain. Replacing the damaged joint with a smooth, artificial implant eliminates the source of pain and improves comfort.

 - Improved Mobility and Function: With pain reduced, flexibility and range of motion increase. This means regaining the ability to perform everyday tasks without difficulty, such as walking, climbing stairs, cooking, and participating in hobbies or recreational activities that were previously limited by pain and stiffness.

 - Enhanced Independence: Joint replacement can restore independence for those who may have relied on others for assistance due to physical limitations. 

 - Long-Term Durability and Improved Joint Health: Artificial joints are designed to be durable and long-lasting, typically lasting for 10 to 20 years. This provides long-term relief from pain and prevents further damage to the joint.

 - Correction of Deformities: In cases where joint conditions have led to deformities, the surgery can help correct these abnormalities, contributing to a more anatomically aligned and functional joint.

Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, offers relief for individuals suffering from chronic knee pain and debilitating joint dysfunction. This transformative procedure alleviates pain and restores function in knees severely compromised by conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injuries. 

Damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint are removed during surgery. This creates a precise surface for the implantation of prosthetic components, typically composed of metal and high-grade plastic, which replicate the natural knee joint and its functionality.

Patients typically undergo a period of rehabilitation following surgery to optimize recovery. Many studies have shown that 90-95%  of total knee replacements are still functioning well 10 years after surgery.

Read our Ultimate Guide to Orthopedic Surgery to find out more about knee replacement surgery.

Hip Replacement Surgery

For individuals suffering from debilitating hip conditions, hip replacement surgery, or hip arthroplasty, offers a life-changing opportunity to reclaim pain-free mobility. Caused by conditions like advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or severe fractures, hip replacement surgery removes the damaged components of the hip joint – the femoral head and the acetabular socket – and replaces them with artificial implants. 

Following hip replacement surgery, patients embark on a personalized recovery journey, working closely with physiotherapists to regain strength, flexibility, and confidence in their new joint. As the healing process progresses, patients experience a gradual reduction in pain, and a restored ability to perform everyday activities.

Shoulder Replacement Surgery

If you are struggling with chronic shoulder pain and limited mobility, shoulder replacement surgery, or shoulder arthroplasty, offers a solution to reclaim lost function and rediscover an active lifestyle. This precise intervention addresses disabling shoulder conditions such as advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fractures, and irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Damaged components of the shoulder joint are removed during surgery, primarily the humeral head (ball of the upper arm bone) and the glenoid (socket in the shoulder blade). They are then replaced with shoulder prostheses, made from durable materials to ensure excellent long-term functionality and biocompatibility.

Read our Ultimate Guide to Orthopedic Surgery to find out more about shoulder replacement.

Arthroscopy 

For less complicated joint issues, orthopedic arthroscopy offers a minimally invasive solution. This technique utilizes a thin, camera-equipped instrument called an arthroscope, inserted through tiny incisions near the affected joint. Surgeons can view the internal structures on a monitor, in real-time, enabling precise diagnosis and treatment to tackle problems like torn cartilage, damaged ligaments, and joint inflammation.

Arthroscopy has several advantages compared to traditional open surgery: reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery times, and minimal scarring.

Post Operative Care and Rehabilitation

Following joint replacement surgery, post-operative care and rehabilitation are crucial for a successful recovery and favorable long-term outcomes. Rehabilitation generally starts shortly after surgery and is customized to meet the unique needs of each patient. Essential to this process is physical therapy, which emphasizes joint mobilization, strength-building exercises, and gait training. Additionally, occupational therapy may be integrated to specifically target activities of daily living. 

This comprehensive rehabilitation approach is designed to optimize the recovery journey, promoting functional restoration and ensuring that patients regain their independence and quality of life.

Post-Operative Care Facilities

Enhance your joint replacement recovery experience in Mexico with dedicated care at one of Mexico’s luxurious post-operative recovery homes. Some offer oceanfront tranquil sea view rooms and 24/7 nursing care, ideal for comfortable, assisted recuperation. 

After hospital discharge, recovery homes can be an idyllic sanctuary for a few restful weeks. Personalized care packages are all orchestrated to ensure a seamless, stress-free transition back to full health. Care packages typically include:

 - En-suite room 

 - Nutritious gourmet meals

 - Laundry and cleaning 

 - Room service

 - Wi-Fi

 - 24/7 care by certified English-speaking nurses and caregivers

 - Physical therapy service

 - Hospital/airport pick-up and drop-off

Booking with Medical Departures — Recommended Hospitals in Mexico

Medical Departures’ commitment to patient safety and satisfaction drives a meticulous approach to building collaborative networks with globally renowned surgeons. Through rigorous background checks, we look into qualifications, licenses, and professional memberships, carefully verifying the credentials of each surgeon joining our network. 

Our team conducts on-site visits to partner facilities to ensure adherence to international safety standards and a comfortable and safe environment for every patient entrusted to our care. 

See below some of the top facilities in Mexico that passed our rigorous background checks:

 - Advanced Health Medical Center, Tijuana

 - Onkort, Merida

Click here to see more verified clinics around the globe.

What Are the Risks of Orthopedic Surgery?

While orthopedic surgery provides life-changing solutions for joint conditions, it is imperative to recognize the inherent risks associated with any surgical procedure. 

Potential complications from surgery:

 - Anaesthesia-related complications: Adverse reactions or allergies to anesthetic medications may occur.

 - Bleeding and hematoma formation: Excessive bleeding from surgery may lead to the formation of blood clots (hematomas), necessitating additional interventions.

 - Infection: While uncommon, surgical wounds may become infected, potentially requiring antibiotic treatment or re-operation.

 - Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE): Blood clots that form in the deep veins, usually in the legs, can travel to the lungs (PE), causing a serious health risk.

 - Pneumonia: Respiratory complications, particularly prevalent in elderly or high-risk patients.

Risks Associated with Orthopedic Surgery:

 - Implant failure or loosening: Over time, artificial joints and hardware such as plates and screws may loosen or malfunction, potentially requiring revision surgery.

 - Nerve damage: Surgery poses a risk of injury to nearby nerves, leading to symptoms like numbness, weakness, or pain.

 - Stiffness and limited range of motion: Scarring or adhesions around the joint may restrict its mobility, resulting in stiffness and a limited range of motion.

 - Fracture during surgery: Complications during the surgical procedure may cause bone fractures, necessitating intervention.

 - Delayed bone healing or non-union: Bones may not heal properly after surgery in some cases, requiring further interventions to promote healing.

Individual risk varies depending on several factors, including pre-existing conditions, age, and overall health.

How to Book Your Appointment?

Contact our Customer Care Team if you have any questions about orthopedic surgery in Mexico or to schedule an appointment. We are here to help you find the best medical care solution–and at no charge to you. 

Sources

Why do millions of Americans go to Mexico for health care? Website accessed 22 December 2023. https://www.thenationalnews.com/world

Joint Commission International (JCI). Website accessed 22 December 2023. https://www.jointcommissioninternational.org/

Effectiveness of total knee replacement. Website accessed 26 December 2023. 

https://orthop.washington.edu

Recovering from a knee replacementWebsite accessed 26 December 2023. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/knee-replacement/recovery/

Hip Replacement Recovery: Q&A with a Hip Specialist. Website accessed 26 December 2023.https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/

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