Medically Reviewed by Dr. Chirag Arora
Written by Swasthya Saarthi Editorial Team, last updated on 22 March 2025
When it comes to knee replacements, making an informed decision is crucial for ensuring a successful outcome. With a myriad of options available in the market, understanding the components, materials, pricing, and top brands can help you navigate through the process with confidence. In this blog, we’ll delve into the intricacies of choosing the right knee implant.
A knee implant, also known as a knee prosthesis, is a medical device designed to replace damaged or diseased knee joints. It typically consists of three components: the femoral component (attached to the thigh bone), the tibial component (attached to the shin bone), and the patellar component (replaces the surface of the kneecap).
These components work together to restore the function and stability of the knee joint, allowing for improved mobility and reduced pain.
The materials used in knee implants are chosen for their durability, compatibility with the body, and ability to withstand the forces exerted on the knee during daily activities. The major components - femoral and tibial are either made up of metallic, ceramic or plastic. Knee implant components are commonly made from various materials, each with its own set of pros and cons and cost ranges:
1. Metalllic (Cobalt-Chromium vs Titanium Alloys):
Pros-
Cons-
Cost Range: Metal implants typically fall within a moderate to high price range such as a titanium alloy based femur component will costs around INR 50,000-55,000 and tibial component will cost around INR 30,000-34,000. The prices are 30-40% lower for Cobalt chromium range.
Cobalt chrome vs titanium alloy: Cobalt chrome is a hard-wearing material whilst titanium is softer and a little more flexible, with properties similar to that of bone. Both the implants are good to use. There is no consensus as to which material is more suitable. However, the patients who have allergy to nickel could use titanium alloy implant.
2. Ceramic (Oxidized Zirconium):
These implants are composed of a zirconium alloy with a hard ceramic surface formed by oxidization of the outer layer. This material has been shown to be an effective bearing surface for total joint arthroplasty and an alternative material for use in patients with metal hypersensitivity.
Pros-
Cons-
Cost: Ceramic implants tend to be more expensive due to the manufacturing process and material properties. Oxidised Zirconium ceramic based femur component will costs around INR 50,000-55,000 and tibial component will cost around INR 30,000-34,000.
3. Plastic (Polyethylene):
The tibial and patellar components in knee replacements are made of polyethylene. The use of Ultra Highly Cross Linked PolyEthylene (UHXLPE) or Ultra High Molecular Weight PolyEthylene (UHMWPE) reduces even the minimal wear enabling the knee implants to last for a much longer time.
Pros-
Low Friction: Polyethylene implants offer low friction properties, reducing wear and tear on the surrounding tissues.
Shock Absorption: They provide excellent shock absorption, mimicking the natural movement of the knee joint.
Biocompatibility: Polyethylene is biocompatible, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions.
Cons-
Wear and Tear: Over time, polyethylene implants may wear out, leading to implant failure or the need for revision surgery.
Potential for Debris: Wear particles from polyethylene implants can accumulate in the joint, potentially causing inflammation or osteolysis (bone loss).
Cost Range: Polyethylene implant components are generally more affordable compared to other materials, making them a cost-effective option for many patients.
The choice of material should be based on factors such as patient preferences, activity level, budget, and the recommendations of the orthopedic surgeon. Ultimately, the goal is to select an implant that provides optimal functionality, longevity, and compatibility with the patient's lifestyle.
In India, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) regulates the maximum prices of knee implants, to ensure affordability and accessibility. The knee implant price caps were last revised in 2021. The maximum prices that can be charged by hospitals for knee implants are given below:
S.no | Orthopaedic Knee Implant | Component | Feature/ Material of Implant | Maximum Price excluding GST (INR per unit) |
Primary | ||||
1 | Primary Knee Replacement System | Femoral | Titanium Alloy | 42,614 |
2 | Primary Knee Replacement System | Femoral | Oxidised Zirconium (Ceramic) | 42,614 |
3 | Primary Knee Replacement System | Femoral | Cobalt Chromium | 26,499 |
4 | Primary Knee Replacement System | Femoral | Hi-flex | 28,446 |
5 | Primary Knee Replacement System | Tibial | Titanium Alloy | 26,708 |
6 | Primary Knee Replacement System | Tibial | Oxidised Zirconium (Ceramic) | 26,708 |
7 | Primary Knee Replacement System | Tibial | Cobalt Chromium | 18,689 |
8 | Primary Knee Replacement System | Tibial | Metallic Tibial + Polyethelene Insert | 29,201 |
9 | Primary Knee Replacement System | Tibial | Polyethelene | 14,256 |
10 | Primary Knee Replacement System | Articulating surface or Insert | Any material | 10,505 |
11 | Primary Knee Replacement System | Patella | Any material | 4,499 |
Revision | ||||
1 | Revision Knee Replacement System | Femoral | Any material | 69,047 |
2 | Revision Knee Replacement System | Tibial | Any material | 34,342 |
3 | Revision Knee Replacement System | Articulating surface or Insert | Any material | 17,457 |
4 | Revision Knee Replacement System | Patella | Any material | 4,499 |
In most cases, knee implant components are available as part of a complete set. However, some manufacturers may offer individual components to accommodate specific patient needs or revisions. It’s essential to consult with your orthopedic surgeon to determine the most suitable option for your condition.
Several reputable knee implant brands are available in India, each with its own advantages and considerations:
Choosing the best knee implant requires careful consideration of various factors, including material types, pricing, and brand reputation. By understanding the components, materials, pricing mechanisms, and top brands available in India, patients can make informed decisions in collaboration with their healthcare providers. Remember to prioritize functionality, durability, and compatibility with your lifestyle for the best possible outcome.