How Much Does Total Knee Replacement Cost?
Without Insurance
$30,000 - $60,000
With Insurance
$3,000 - $8,000
Medicare Covered
Cost Overview
Total knee replacement is one of the most common orthopaedic surgeries in the United States, with over 700,000 procedures performed annually. The total cost varies significantly based on your location, hospital, surgeon, implant type, and insurance coverage. Understanding the cost breakdown can help you plan financially and make informed decisions about your care.
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Surgeon fee | $5,000 - $12,000 |
| Hospital/facility fee | $15,000 - $35,000 |
| Anesthesia | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Implant (prosthesis) | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Physical therapy (6-12 weeks) | $2,000 - $5,000 |
| Pre-op imaging and labs | $500 - $1,500 |
| Total (estimated) | $30,000 - $60,000 |
Insurance Coverage
Most private insurance plans and Medicare Part A cover total knee replacement when deemed medically necessary. Medicare typically covers 80% of approved costs after the Part A deductible. Private insurance out-of-pocket costs depend on your deductible, copay, and coinsurance. Pre-authorization is usually required.
Financing Options
- Medicare covers most of the cost for patients 65 and older
- Many hospitals offer interest-free payment plans for 12-24 months
- Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) can be used
- Some surgeons offer cash-pay discounts for uninsured patients
- Medical credit cards like CareCredit offer promotional financing
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does knee replacement cost with insurance?
With insurance, most patients pay $3,000-$8,000 out of pocket, depending on their deductible, copay, and coinsurance. Many plans require meeting an annual deductible before coverage kicks in. Contact your insurer for a pre-authorization estimate.
Does Medicare cover knee replacement?
Yes. Medicare Part A covers the hospital stay and Part B covers the surgeon fee for medically necessary knee replacements. You are responsible for the Part A deductible (approximately $1,632 in 2024) and 20% of the Part B approved amount. Supplemental Medigap insurance can cover most remaining costs.
Why does knee replacement cost vary so much?
Cost varies based on geographic region (urban hospitals cost more), whether it is performed at a hospital vs. ambulatory surgery center, the type of implant used (standard vs. custom), length of hospital stay, and whether complications arise. Getting estimates from multiple providers is recommended.
Is outpatient knee replacement cheaper?
Yes. Outpatient (same-day) knee replacement at an ambulatory surgery center typically costs 30-50% less than an inpatient hospital stay. Not all patients qualify for outpatient surgery, but it is increasingly common for healthy candidates.
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Insurance Plans
Cost estimates are based on national averages and may vary by location, provider, and insurance plan. Contact your provider and insurer for personalized estimates.