Knee replacements

[migrant]

Due to numerous activities while younger, my knees are shot.

They've been operated on, but still painful. The doc's say only a matter of time that the pain is too bad and I'll need them replaced.

Thailand is, hopefully, 2-3 years in the future so being the planner that I am;

Anyone gone through this in Thailand?

I'm putting it off as long as possible, but if it makes sense (and pain) I'll plan on it before I go (lot's of time still, but plan plan plan)

Thanks

[kendo]

Why not go through Bupa there is an agent in HH, it's been talked about on another thread.

I have used Bupa for keyhole surgery on my left Knee very good service.

Kendo.

[Arcadian]

How much would the keyhole surgery have cost you had not BUPA picked up the bill?

[Big Boy]

Surely, if the OP is not already with BUPA they will not treat a pre-existing condition. Or is the suggestion that migrant simply uses BUPA facilities at whatever cost?

[kendo]

I would have thought that the OP would have medical cover as he likes to plan things out.
This guy from work had Knee replacements through the company health scheme 10 years ago, and if i recall it was about £8000 per knee, it's an expensive procedure so i would shop around with reputable companys,

Kendo.

[migrant]

Thanks Guys for the response

Mainly my thoughts are that;

1) If the old joints get bad enough before I leave, I've got decent insurance, and know a good doctor - no problem

2) If (hopefully) the joints stay as is, I can live with them - no problem

3) If they continue to degrade, but not at a point where I have to have the cuts (but know it's going to happen) should I get it done early, or wait and when the time comes have it done in Thailand - Problem!!

I don't know BUPA, but here in the states as long as you have a prior insurance, a new company must accept all conditions.

So I was wondering about costs and quality of work in LOS

Thanks

[Nereus]

I looked into this for a hip replacement. Certainly, the facilities, and the expertise, is readily available in Bangkok. Search around a bit, as has been pointed out on another thread, and you will find a surgeon that has been trained in the West.
Not sure about knee joints, but with hip joints there is a range of different types, and hence different costs. For the Hospital itself you may find that the ones that specialise in this type of surgery have a pricing level that may not be much cheaper than your own country.

If you plan to have medical insurance cover this type of procedure after you move to Thailand, I would be a bit wary about just who you sign up with, and read the fine print regarding pre-existing conditions. For me I think that I would rather have it done in my own country, especially if you already have private health insurance.

[migrant]

For me I think that I would rather have it done in my own country, especially if you already have private health insurance.

Hi Nereus

Thanks for the info, I am leaning towards doing it before, but have had enough surgeries (active lifestyle) I hate to cut it before it's entirely broken!

Being a planner I like to think early about these things, and accumulate info and opinions, but in reality I do have quite some time.

Thanks Again!!

[margaretcarnes]

Knee replacements are still a relatively new procedure, and like the early hip jobs can still be a bit hit and miss from what I've seen. Some folks I've talked to have been fine. Others still experience pain and restricted movement afterwards. Much of course will depend on the extent of the pre existing damage and some knees are considered too far gone.
Also the 'life' of a knee replacement still seems to be a bit of an unknown. In the UK they are not being done by the NHS until after the age of 60.
I think you are wise to do your research, and would personally try not to let cost be a factor. If the knee is starting to affect your weightbearing and manner of walking, is it likely to be causing strain now on the hip and other leg? If so its maybe time for action. If not, perhaps the LOS climate will help to ease pain.

[norm]

My mother had her knee replaced in 1986 and it was very successful. Served her well until she passed away in 2001.

She said the operation was not a big ordeal and was pleased she had it done.

[migrant]

Again thanks all

Margaret, over here they also do not like to do replacements until at least 60 since approx every ten years it needs to be redone and shortens the leg in the process. Someone like me, at 51 and still real active, would have a leg 4 inches shorter by 70

They do have a new procedure that a few people I know have gone through that goes about it less intrusive.

Norm, did your Mother have it done in Thailand?

I guess it's that old saying if we knew in youth what we know now....I might have taken it easier.....Nah!!

But my kids don't listen either.

[norm]

Migrant

No she had it done in Portland Oregon. Never did give her a any problem.

[margaretcarnes]

Sounds like they may be a bit more advanced with the op in the States, if Norms Mum is anything to go by - good on her. But you are right Migrant, at your tender age (and no doubt a few more miles to go) the leg shortening aspect could be a bummer! Good luck anyway