Private Hip Replacement Surgery Costs in the UK

The demand for private hip replacement surgery in the UK is increasing, as people are looking for shorter waiting times and more personalized care. In this blog post, we will discuss the costs, benefits, and options for private hip replacement surgery in the UK.

Do you Need Hip Replacement Surgery?

If you are experiencing severe hip pain, and limited mobility due to the condition, you should consult an orthopaedic surgeon. The surgeon will ask you some questions and perform some tests to determine if you need hip replacement surgery. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of hip replacement surgery with your doctor to get a proper diagnosis.

Are There Alternative Therapies to Hip Surgery?

With improvements in medicine and technology, there are a few alternatives to traditional hip surgery that are generally suggested. Besides these, there are alternatives that doctors will suggest, depending on the patient’s fitness, medical history and condition before surgery. Some alternative options for hip replacement include:

1. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is a highly effective method for enhancing hip strength and flexibility, leading to a reduction in pain and a significant improvement in mobility.
2. Medications: To relieve hip pain, there are a variety of medicines available. Over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications such as corticosteroids or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.
3. Stem Cell Therapy: Doctors might prescribe stem cell therapy, which involves injecting stem cells directly into damaged hip tissue to help repair the damage.

Are There Different Types of Hip Replacement Surgeries Available?

There are other hip replacement options besides total hip replacement. The best option for you will depend on the condition of your hip.

These options include:

1. Partial Hip Replacement: This replaces only the damaged part of the hip joint.
2. Hip Resurfacing: This replaces the damaged surface of the hip joint with a metal cap.
3. Revision Hip Replacement: This is a second surgery that may be needed if the first hip replacement doesn’t work or wears out.
4. Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement: This surgery uses smaller incisions and specialized instruments.

What Happens During a Total Hip Replacement?

Total hip replacement surgery is a medical procedure used to relieve pain and improve mobility in people with severe hip joint damage or arthritis. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the process:

1. Anaesthesia: Before the surgery begins, you’ll be given anaesthesia. There are two options:
2. General Anesthesia: This puts you to sleep throughout the procedure, so you won’t feel anything.
3. Spinal Anesthesia: With this option, you remain awake, but the lower part of your body is numb, so you won’t experience pain.
4. Incision: The surgeon makes an incision on the side of your hip. This incision provides access to the hip joint.
5. Removal of Damaged Tissues: The surgeon removes the damaged hip joint and any damaged portions of the thigh bone. This step involves precision to ensure that only the unhealthy tissues are removed.
6. Implanting the New Hip Joint: The artificial hip joint, made of metal, plastic, or ceramic components, is placed into the prepared space. It can be fixed in two ways:
7. Cement Fixation: The joint is secured with special bone cement.
8. Uncemented Fixation: In this case, the implant has a coating that allows it to bond directly with the bone over time.
9. Closing the Incision: Once the new hip joint is in place, the surgeon carefully closes the incision using stitches, staples, or surgical tape.
10. Recovery: After the surgery, you’ll be moved to a recovery area, where you’ll be closely monitored as you wake up from anaesthesia.

Benefits of Private Hip Replacement Surgery

Private hip replacement surgery offers several advantages over the NHS; these include:

1. Faster Treatment: One of the main appeals of private hip surgery is the reduced waiting time. In the NHS, waiting times for elective surgeries can be lengthy, often ranging from 18 months to 2 years or more.
2. Private Room: Regardless of whether you opt for a private hospital or a private room in an NHS hospital, you’ll typically have your room for recovery, providing more comfort and privacy.
3. Better Facilities: Many private clinics resemble boutique hotels, offering amenities like en-suite bathrooms, TVs, and high-quality food, which can contribute to a more pleasant recovery experience.
4. Continuity of Care: With private surgery, you’re more likely to be under the care of the same consultant throughout the entire process, ensuring consistent and personalized attention.
5. Access to Cutting-Edge Treatments: Private treatment providers often invest in the latest equipment, drugs, and treatments. This can include advanced technologies like robotics or minimally invasive surgery, reducing the risks associated with the procedure.

Cost Factors in Private Hip Replacement Surgery

The cost of private hip replacement surgery can vary significantly; several factors influence the final price:

1. Location: The geographical location of the hospital plays a significant role in cost variation. Private treatment in London tends to be 10-20% more expensive than in other areas.
2. Equipment Costs: Access to cutting-edge treatments means higher equipment costs for the hospital, which can affect the overall price.
3. Medication: Private providers often use advanced medications, which can contribute to a higher cost but may lead to a better outcome.
4. Consultant Expertise: The experience and expertise of the consultant surgeon can influence the cost. Highly experienced surgeons may charge more for their services.
5. Staffing: The cost of living in the hospital’s location can impact staffing fees.
6. Facilities Costs: Rent, business rates, and utility expenses can vary depending on the hospital’s location.
7. Insurance: Hospitals require insurance for potential complications, and surgeons may have their insurance, which can factor into costs.
8. Information Technology: Hospitals need technology infrastructure, including phones, computers, and secure data storage, which contributes to expenses.

It’s crucial to obtain detailed cost estimates and discuss payment options with your chosen healthcare provider to make an informed decision.

How Much Difference Does Location Make to the Cost of Hip Replacement Surgery?

The cost of hip replacement surgery varies significantly based on your location. Here’s a breakdown of cost differences across major cities in the UK:

1. London: Known for its higher living costs, London has a more expensive average cost of hip replacement surgery, averaging around £13,700.
2. Cardiff: In Cardiff, you can expect an average cost of around £13,336.
3. Manchester: In Manchester, the average cost is approximately £12,825.
4. Southampton: Southampton averages around £13,786.
5. Belfast: Belfast offers a more cost-effective option, with an average cost of approximately £12,999.
6. Glasgow: In Glasgow, the average cost is around £12,455.
7. Edinburgh: Edinburgh’s average cost is approximately £13,590.

Travelling to another nearby city with lower costs might be a practical option for those looking to save on expenses. For those looking for a cheaper alternative to surgery in the UK, Poland makes a good choice. In Poland, you have state-of-the-art clinics like KCM Clinics that offer hip replacement surgeries at lower costs than in the UK.  The average cost of hip replacement in Poland is £4,314.96 to £7,004.24, while in the UK it is £10,720. 

However, it’s essential to consider the overall logistics of travel and recovery when making this decision. 

What’s Included in the Cost of Private Hip Replacement Surgery?

The cost of private hip replacement surgery typically includes the following:

1. The surgeon’s fees.
2. The cost of anaesthesia and other medical expenses.
3. The cost of the artificial joint.
4. The cost of the hospital stay.
5. The cost of rehabilitation.

These inclusions may vary by hospital and insurance provider, so it’s essential to review the details of your treatment plan carefully.

Where You Can Have Your Private Hip Replacement Surgery

You have the choice to pick where and by whom you’re treated, whether you opt for private healthcare or use the NHS.

1. In a Private Hospital: Many private healthcare providers operate their hospitals and clinics. If you have health insurance with one of these providers, you’ll likely receive treatment at one of their facilities. You can also choose a hospital close to your home or one known for its expertise in hip replacements.
2. As a Private Patient in an NHS Hospital: If your NHS orthopaedic surgeon also practices privately, you can opt for private treatment at the same hospital. This can offer faster treatment, personalised care, and access to services like physiotherapy. Consider expenses like travel and accommodation when deciding on private care. Consult your surgeon to make an informed choice.

Paying for Private Hip Replacement Surgery

There are several payment options available for private hip replacement surgery:

1. Health Insurance: If you have existing health insurance that covers hip replacement surgery, this is often the best option. After a diagnosis, your GP can refer you for private surgery.
2. Self-Pay: If you can afford it, many hospitals offer a self-pay option. You’ll pay for an initial consultation and receive a fixed-price quote for the surgery.
3. Medical Loan: If paying the full price upfront is challenging, many providers offer medical loans that allow you to spread the cost over time, often with 0% interest for an initial period.
4. Private Medical Insurance: If you don’t have pre-existing hip conditions, your existing private medical insurance can cover hip replacement surgery. However, if you’ve already sought treatment for hip pain or are on an NHS waiting list, insurance may not cover the cost.

It’s essential to carefully consider your financial situation and insurance coverage when choosing a payment method for your surgery. Consulting with your healthcare provider can help you explore these options further.

Conclusion

Private hip replacement surgery is a viable option for people who are looking for shorter waiting times, more personalized care, and access to cutting-edge treatments. However, it is important to weigh the costs involved, as private healthcare can be significantly more expensive than public options. Before making a decision, individuals should thoroughly research their options, consult with healthcare professionals, and consider their financial situation. 

References 

• https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/0f6c0370e676ff811f5ce3b78d964600095e6fd6
• https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Thromboprophylactic-treatment-with-rivaroxaban-or-Ringerike-Hamidi/d897aed6b93f64eb114852bf5ebd400327bb79e4
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5798032/