Best Hip Replacement in Europe: What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure where a damaged or arthritic hip joint is replaced with an artificial joint, known as a prosthetic implant. The goal of hip replacement surgery is to alleviate chronic hip pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall quality of life for patients suffering from hip joint damage or degeneration.
How is it performed❓
The surgery involves removing a damaged or diseased hip joint and replacing it with an artificial one (a prosthetic implant).
Who needs it most often❓
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People with severe arthritis. Such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
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Those with hip injuries. Especially if they've led to lasting damage.
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Individuals experiencing chronic pain. When pain disrupts daily life, other treatments haven't helped.
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Older adults. Due to general wear and tear on the joints over time.
What is the preparation for hip replacement?
Preparing for hip replacement surgery involves a few key steps for the patient:
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Medical review. The doctor examines the patient and checks their health history. For example, they might ask about any past surgeries or ongoing medications.
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Imaging. The patient undergoes specific scans like an X-ray or MRI to visualize the hip area. This helps plan the surgery precisely.
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Blood tests. These tests assess the patient’s overall health, such as blood cell counts and clotting function, to ensure they’re ready for surgery.
Patients may also contact their insurance company to obtain detailed cost estimates and understand their financial responsibilities.
Types of Hip Replacement Procedures
Each of these methods offers unique advantages and comes with specific considerations. Patients choose the best option based on their needs, budget, and the expertise available at their chosen medical facility. Many of these techniques are also used in knee replacement surgeries.
1. Traditional hip replacement. Doctors make a 20-25 cm incision to place the implant.
➕Lower cost compared to other methods.
➖ More surrounding tissue damage leads to longer recovery and a larger visible scar.
2. Minimally invasive hip replacement. The implant is installed through a smaller, 5-8 cm incision.
➕ Less tissue damage and a less painful, shorter recovery. Results in a smaller scar.
➖Disadvantages. Higher cost than traditional hip replacement.
3. AMIS method. An incision up to 10 cm is made in the front of the thigh; tissues around the joint are pushed aside, not cut, to install the prosthesis.
➕ Preserves muscles and tendons, leading to a less painful recovery and faster return to normal activities.
➖ Fewer surgeons are trained in this technique, limiting availability.
4. Robotic hip replacement (MAKOplasty). Uses a robotic system to place the hip implant with an accuracy of 0.1 mm.
➕ Increased precision enhances the longevity of the implant and reduces the risk of postoperative issues.
➖Higher costs and limited availability as not all clinics have the MAKOplasty robot.
👉 Explore patient reviews and testimonials on Bookimed to see how patients are regaining mobility and improving their quality of life with hip replacement surgery in Europe.
What Hip Replacement Implant Materials Are On The Market
The selection of an implant is tailored to each patient's needs and the surgeon's expertise.
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Titanium metal implants. Preferred for their long track record of success, used in over 60% of surgeries.
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Ceramic metal implants. Provided by manufacturers like Smith & Nephew, known for high biocompatibility and lasting over 20 years.
How Long Does Hip Replacement Surgery Take?
Hip replacement surgery usually takes 1 to 2 hours, but preparation and recovery may extend this time.
What Is The Hip Implant Cost?
For those seeking the best hip replacement in Europe, obtaining quality medical care at a fair price is often a key factor. Eastern European countries offer significant savings for affordable hip replacement surgery in Europe. For example, the procedure costs €4,000–€6,000 in Belarus. This is up to 80% cheaper than Switzerland (€18,000–€25,000) and 50-60% less than in France or the UK (€10,000–€15,000).
Even within Europe, savings are substantial. Hungary (€5,500–€9,000) and Bulgaria (€5,000–€8,000) are around 30-40% cheaper than Germany (€7,500–€12,000). Patients can access excellent care while significantly reducing costs by choosing these destinations.
🔹Hip replacement cost by country in a table:
| Country |
Average Cost Range (EUR) |
| Austria |
€10,000 - €12,000 |
| Belarus |
€4,000 - €6,000 |
| Bulgaria |
€5,000 - €8,000 |
| Czech Republic |
€6,000 - €8,500 |
| France |
€10,000 - €12,000 |
| Germany |
€7,500 - €12,000 |
| Greece |
€8,000 - €11,000 |
| Hungary |
€5,500 - €9,000 |
| Italy |
€10,000 - €15,000 |
| Lithuania |
€6,500 - €9,500 |
| Poland |
€6,500 - €8,500 |
| Spain |
€7,500 - €10,000 |
| Switzerland |
€18,000 - €25,000 |
| United States |
€45,000 - €65,000 |
| United Kingdom |
€10,000 - €15,000 |
| Australia |
€20,000 - €30,000 |
| Canada |
€18,000 - €25,000 |
What affects the cost❓
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Location 🌍. Costs differ widely, e.g., Belarus (€4,000–€6,000) vs. Switzerland (€18,000–€25,000).
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Implant type ⚙️. Advanced materials like ceramic are pricier than titanium.
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Surgical method 🏥. Minimally invasive or robotic-assisted techniques cost more.
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Expertise 🏨. Premium hospitals and experienced surgeons charge higher fees.
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Extras 💰. Tests, rehab, and post-op care add to costs. Understanding the out of pocket cost is crucial for patients to manage their finances effectively.
Typical Package Inclusions and Considerations
🎁 An all-inclusive hip replacement package includes everything needed at a fixed price. This usually covers the consultation, surgery, and post-operative care. It's a simple and budget-friendly option with no hidden costs.
Bookimed's partner clinics often offer these packages at lower prices than booking directly. Packages may vary by country, and exclusive deals or limited-time offers can make them even more affordable.
| ✅Typically included |
❕Should Be Confirmed |
| Hip replacement surgery |
Airfare (almost never included) |
| Consultations with doctors (e.g., orthopedist, anesthesiologist) |
Hotel accommodation (around 10 days) |
| Preoperative tests (e.g., blood tests, MRI, CT) |
Additional activities (e.g., sightseeing) |
| Anesthesia (local or general) |
|
| Medications during the hospital stay |
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| Hospital stay (e.g., 5 days) |
|
| Transfers (airport-hotel-clinic) |
|
| Postoperative follow-up examinations |
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| Language assistance |
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| 24/7 assistance and medical coordination |
|
What Is The Best Country for Hip Replacement Surgery?
The best hip replacement in Europe options include:
🔹When searching for the best hip replacement in Europe, each country offers unique advantages and high-quality care.
Austria has a well-regarded health care system, known for its high-quality surgeries. The country performs a lot of hip replacements, with about 120 procedures for every 100,000 people.
Austria’s healthcare system is monitored by key organizations such as the Austrian Health Ministry, the Austrian Social Insurance, the Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES), the Austrian Medical Chamber, and the Federal Health Agency, which ensure high standards.
Studies, including those from Austria, show that the survival rate for hip replacements is around 90% after 15 years, indicating good long-term outcomes.
Bulgaria performs around 13,000 joint replacement surgeries annually, reflecting extensive experience in these procedures. The cheapest hip replacement in Europe, Bulgaria, ranges from €5,000 to €8,000. This makes it one of the most affordable options in Europe.
Nevertheless, the quality of the procedures is high. In Bulgaria, quality control for hip replacements is managed by the Bulgarian Drug Agency (BDA), which ensures the safety and effectiveness of medical devices, alongside the Ministry of Health, which sets and monitors health standards.
In Hungary, about 150 hip replacement surgeries are performed annually for every 100,000 people, indicating that surgeons and hospitals are highly experienced with this procedure. In support of this, a study conducted at the University of Pécs involving 128 patients revealed significant improvements in mobility and pain relief within just 3 months following hip replacements.
Furthermore, with the hip replacement price ranging from €5,500 to €9,000, Hungary stands as one of the most affordable options for hip replacement surgery in Europe.
A study conducted in Lithuania found that the 10-year survival rate for hip arthroplasties is approximately 95%, comparable to countries with extensive surgical expertise. This highlights the effectiveness of surgical techniques in the country. In Lithuania, the State Medicines Control Agency ensures the safety and effectiveness of hip replacements, while the Ministry of Health sets and monitors national health standards.
The average cost for hip replacement surgery in Lithuania ranges from approximately €6,500 to €9,500, making it one of the more affordable options in Europe compared to Western countries where costs can exceed €20,000.
Hip replacement cost in Europe Poland costs between €6,500 and €8,500 on average, positioning it as one of Europe's most affordable choices. In Poland, quality control for hip replacements is overseen by the Office for Registration of Medicinal Products and national health standards set by the Ministry of Health.
In the past decade, hip arthroplasty procedures in Poland increased by 127%. This reflects growing demand and enhanced surgeon expertise. Polish orthopedic surgeons perform an average of 12.7 hip arthroplasties annually.
In 2023, Spain ranked third in Europe for high-quality hip replacements, according to the International Society of Arthroplasty Registries. The average cost of hip replacement in Spain ranges from €7,500 to €10,000.
Spain performs over 30,000 hip replacements annually, reflecting high demand and extensive surgical expertise, as noted by the Spanish Society of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology. This contributes to improved patient outcomes.
The costs place Switzerland among the higher-priced options in Europe for this procedure (€18,000 - €25,000). Switzerland performs about 250 total hip arthroplasties (THA) per 100,000 people annually, indicating high demand and a skilled surgical community. Switzerland upholds strict quality standards in hip replacement surgeries, supported by organizations such as Swiss Society of Orthopaedics and Traumatology and Swiss Medical Association, ensuring high surgical outcomes.
How To Prepare For Hip Replacement Surgery?
| Step |
Description |
| Medical evaluation |
Health check with blood tests to ensure surgery readiness. |
| Imaging tests |
X-rays or MRI to plan the surgery. |
| Medication review |
Adjust or pause medications as needed. |
| Physical prep |
Optional pre-surgery physical therapy to strengthen muscles. |
| Home setup |
Arrange a safe, comfortable recovery space at home. |
| Fasting |
Fast as directed before surgery. |
Patients should also be prepared for the rehabilitation period, which is crucial for a successful recovery.
Insurance and Financing Options for Hip Replacement Surgery
Medical tourists looking to finance hip replacement surgery abroad can consider the following detailed options:
| Option |
Practical Information |
| Travel health insurance |
Typically covers 50-80% of medical costs abroad, depending on the plan. Companies like Allianz and Cigna offer plans that include surgical procedures. |
| Direct billing |
Some hospitals abroad have direct billing agreements with international insurers such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, easing the payment process. |
| Medical tourism insurance |
Specialized products like those from Seven Corners and Global Protective Solutions can cover up to 100% of surgical costs and possible complications during the stay. |
| Personal loans |
Financial institutions may lend up to $50,000 for medical procedures, with interest rates varying by credit score and loan term. |
| Credit cards |
Suitable for immediate expenses; some cards offer 0% APR promotions for initial periods, which can be beneficial for quicker repayments. |
| Payment plans from hospitals |
Facilities like Bumrungrad International Hospital in Thailand offer payment plans that allow spreading the cost over several months to a year. |
👉The EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive allows EU residents to receive medical treatment in any EU member state, with costs reimbursed up to the price of the same treatment in their home country.
| Aspect |
Details |
| Eligibility |
Open to all EU residents seeking treatment in another EU country. |
| Reimbursement |
Covers up to the domestic treatment cost; patients pay any extra. |
| Prior authorization |
Needed for expensive treatments or hospital stays; approval required from the National Health Service. |
| Process |
Submit a treatment plan and cost estimate to your national health insurance for approval. |
This directive provides opportunities for accessing potentially quicker or more specialized medical care abroad but requires thorough planning and approval to ensure coverage and reimbursement. For more detailed information, visit the official EU health portal.
How To Maintain Hip Joint Health?
Proper care of your hip joints is essential to avoid chronic pain and potentially needing hip replacement surgery. Here's how to keep your hips healthy:
| Strategy |
Benefits |
| Regular exercise |
Strengthens the muscles around the hip, improving stability and flexibility. |
| Healthy weight |
Reduces stress on the joints, minimizing wear and tear. |
| Avoid high-impact activities |
Lessens the risk of joint injuries and deterioration. |
| Early intervention |
Treating symptoms promptly can slow or prevent the progression of joint disease. |
Risks and Complications of Hip Replacement Surgery
🔷Hip replacement surgery typically has very good success rates.
In the first 5 years after surgery, between 90% to 100% of the implants are still functioning well, meaning most patients do very well shortly after their surgery. After 10 years, the success rate slightly drops to between 62% and 98%, but it's still quite high. Even after 20 years, 60.4% to 77.7% of the implants are still effective, though some may need to be replaced or revised as they get older. Overall, hip replacement is a reliable long-term solution for many people.
❗As with any surgical procedure, hip replacement surgery carries risks and complications, such as infection, blood clots, and implant failure.
| Risk |
Potential Impact |
| Infection |
May require additional treatment or surgery. |
| Blood Clots |
Could lead to serious complications like pulmonary embolism. |
| Implant Problems |
Might need revision surgery due to wear or loosening. |
| Hip Dislocation |
Possible instability or displacement of the joint. |
| Nerve Damage |
Could cause numbness, weakness, or pain in the area. |
References
- The worldwide survival rate of total hip arthroplasties is improving: a systematic comparative analysis using worldwide hip arthroplasty registers / C. Clar et al. EFORT Open Reviews. 2024. Vol. 9, no. 8. P. 745–750. URL: https://doi.org/10.1530/eor-23-0080 (date of access: 01.01.2025).
- A Scoping Review of Total Hip Arthroplasty Survival and Reoperation Rates in Patients of 55 Years or Younger: Health Services Implications for Revision Surgeries / A. M. Negm et al. Arthroplasty Today. 2022. URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.artd.2022.05.012 (date of access: 01.01.2025).
- Hip and knee joint arthroplasty results in Lithuania. Medical Sciences. 2021. Vol. 9, no. 7. URL: https://doi.org/10.53453/ms.2021.11.28 (date of access: 01.01.2025).
- Process of Posthospital Care Involving Telemedicine Solutions for Patients after Total Hip Arthroplasty / K. Kamecka et al. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021. Vol. 18, no. 19. P. 10135. URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph181910135 (date of access: 01.01.2025).
- Post-discharge occurrence of surgical site infections after hip or knee arthroplasty surgery in Poland, a population-based study / M. Gajda et al. Scientific Reports. 2023. Vol. 13, no. 1. URL:
- Cost and resource comparison analysis for THA in Switzerland and Austria / S. Blümel et al. International Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care. 2024. Vol. 40, no. 1. URL: https://doi.org/10.1017/s0266462324000321 (date of access: 01.01.2025).
- A Scoping Review of Total Hip Arthroplasty Survival and Reoperation Rates in Patients of 55 Years or Younger: Health Services Implications for Revision Surgeries / A. M. Negm et al. Arthroplasty Today. 2022. URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.artd.2022.05.012 (date of access: 01.01.2025).
