Hip and knee replacement, sports injury repair and spine surgery are among the most requested procedures by international patients in China. High surgical volumes, internationally standard implants and structured rehabilitation make these treatments a strong choice.
What to expect from surgery
Chinese orthopedic departments use implants from the major global manufacturers alongside quality domestic options, so you can discuss implant choice and warranty before surgery. Enhanced recovery protocols — pre-habilitation exercise, regional anesthesia, early mobilization — are now standard in leading hospitals, and many patients walk with assistance within a day of joint replacement.
The rehabilitation plan
Surgery is half the story. Chinese rehabilitation medicine is well developed: inpatient physiotherapy, then outpatient sessions or hotel-based programs for staying patients. A typical knee replacement plan includes six to twelve weeks of structured rehabilitation with defined milestones.
Planning your stay
Budget two to three weeks in China for a joint replacement including recovery, longer for complex spine procedures. Arrange comfortable accommodation with good accessibility, and plan your return flight with adequate legroom or business class for comfort.
Ask for the surgical report, implant stickers and imaging files on a disc or USB drive before discharge — your orthopedist at home will want all of them.