Exploring the expenses: Factors Influencing ACL Surgery Cost in India

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) surgery is a typical orthopedic procedure, often looked for by people managing knee wounds. As of late, India has arisen as a preferred objective for ACL surgery because of its blend of elite medical offices and cost-viable treatments. This article digs into the different variables impacting ACL surgery costs in India, offering bits of knowledge for those thinking about this procedure. From surgical costs to post-employable care, understanding the general cost construction can help patients in pursuing informed choices with respect to their healthcare journey.

Understanding ACL Surgery 

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is one of the main ligament stabilisers of the knee joint that resists:

• The tibia from translating forward of the femur
• Hyperextension of the knee joint
• Varus (bow legged) and valgus (knocked knee) deformity of the knee
• Rotation of the femur on the tibia

The ACL is a commonly injured ligament of the knee. Dr Arora performs arthroscopic assisted ACL reconstruction through mini incisions. The ACL surgery costs in India reflect a commitment to providing accessible and economical orthopedic solutions, making it a sought-after destination for international patients.

Symptoms

Commonly, the ACL is injured in a non-contact injury where the knee ‘twists’ during foot landing or push- off. The feeling or sound of a “pop” may be experienced, with pain and a rapid joint swelling. The knee   may give way when you try to walk, particularly changing directions. Dr Arora will take a thorough history and examination to help make the diagnosis of an ACL injury. ACL surgery costs in India present a cost-effective solution for individuals in need of knee injury treatment, without compromising on the quality of medical services.

Investigations

The prospect of undergoing ACL surgery in India appeals to those who seek top-notch medical facilities and experienced surgeons while benefiting from reduced financial expenses. Plain knee x-rays are essential. Often the surgeon requests an MRI scan to help confirm the diagnosis, and to assess other knee injuries such as bone bruising, meniscal tears and other ligament tears that may require treatment.

Surgery

The cost of ACL surgery in India is significantly lower than in many Western countries, attracting patients looking for high-quality orthopedic care at an affordable price. As with many orthopedic injuries, an ACL rupture is not life threatening, and it is not essential for a surgeon to perform a reconstruction. However the concern is that repeated knee injury from an ACL unstable knee, will cause repeated cartilage damage, early progressive arthritis and pain in the knee, necessitating additional intervention by a surgeon. ACL ruptures can be managed without the assistance of a surgeon if the patient is able to live within their envelope of stability by avoiding sports and movement that reproduce knee instability. The operative management of ACL rupture is indicated in the individual who is unable to live within the envelope of stability in the injured knee. 

ACL Surgery Patient Profiles and Graft Options

These individuals generally fall into two groups:

1. Those that are participating at a high level of sport, and have high demands of their knee, where they want to take part in activity and sporting activities that require more stability in the knee where damage would likely occur if the ACL is not reconstructed
2. Those that may not participate at a high level of sport, but find that their knee is unstable with activities of daily living and recreational activities.

There are a variety of methods and graft types surgeons use to reconstruct the knee. Dr Arora uses modern a rthroscopic ACL reconstruction techniques, and prefers to use the patient’s own hamstring tendons, and where necessary bone-patella tendon-bone grak. Donated graft (Allograft) is also used in select cases where necessary. Dr Arora has a special interest in hybrid ACL reconstructions — using hamstring tendons from the patient plus a synthetic ligament to accelerate rehabilitation and return to sport. Dr Arora learnt this art while doing a knee arthroscopy fellowship with Dr Peter Annear, one of Australia’s leading knee surgeons.

Procedure Details

The specific type of procedures required during your ACL reconstruction will be discussed with your surgeon prior to the procedure. In general for most patients:

• Your anesthetist will perform general anesthetic. Your knee is prepared and sterile draped
• Dr Arora makes a small incision to harvest your hamstring graft
• Small keyhole incisions are made to allow Dr Arora to view inside the knee and prepare the soft tissue and bone to receive the graft
• The grak is prepared and passed into your knee to replace your damaged ACL
• The surgical sites are cleaned and closed The post-operative recovery consists of:

The majority of patients that have an ACL reconstruction are discharged on the day of or next day after surgery

• Full weight bearing with crutches for 2 weeks Back to School/University 1-2 weeks
• Back to sedentary work by 2 weeks
• Driving by 2-4 weeks
• Manual labor restricted duties 6 weeks, full duties 3-4 months
• Golf 3 months
• Running in a straight line between 3-4 months
• Full contact sports 9-12 months

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the complexities of ACL surgery is fundamental for patients considering this orthopedic procedure. India, with its prestigious medical offices and cost-successful treatments, has arisen as a preferred objective for ACL surgery. The variables affecting ACL surgery costs in India, from the surgical procedure to post-employable care, assume a critical part in decision-production for people looking for this treatment. In addition, taking into account the promising results of ACL surgery and the available ACL surgery cost in India, patients can unhesitatingly leave on their healthcare journey, realizing they approach quality care without unreasonable financial weight.