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Joint Replacement Surgery: Comprehensive Guide from Diagnosis to Recovery

Explore why Iran is a top destination for joint replacement with Hayyan’s expert medical tourism services.

Joint Replacement Arthroplasty Iran Medical Tourism
By Dr. Shahrestani | April 26, 2025 | 10 min read

Introduction

Joint replacement surgery (arthroplasty) is a highly effective procedure for patients suffering from severe pain and limited mobility. Iran has emerged as a leading destination for medical tourism, offering advanced joint replacement surgeries at affordable prices. This comprehensive guide, presented by Hayyan, explores the procedure, benefits, and why Iran is the ideal choice for international patients.

Why Choose Iran for Joint Replacement?

  • Cost-Effective: Surgery and prosthetics cost up to 70% less than in Europe or the USA.
  • Expert Surgeons: Iranian orthopedic surgeons are highly skilled in complex procedures.
  • High-Quality Prosthetics: German and American prosthetics at affordable prices.
  • Short Wait Times: Unlike countries like Canada with long waiting lists.
  • Comprehensive Post-Operative Care: Advanced physiotherapy and full support.

Benefits of Joint Replacement Surgery in Iran

For detailed pricing, visit our pricing page.

1. Advanced Hospitals

Private hospitals like Razavi Hospital in Mashhad offer state-of-the-art facilities.

2. Support Services for International Patients

Hayyan provides:

  • Airport transfers and accommodation
  • Medical translators
  • Full coordination with surgeons and hospitals
  • 24/7 support
Modern hospital in Iran

1. Replaceable Joints

  • Knee (most common)
  • Hip
  • Shoulder
  • Elbow
  • Wrist and fingers (in specific cases)

2. Reasons for Joint Replacement

  • Advanced osteoarthritis (cartilage wear)
  • Rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune joint destruction)
  • Severe joint fractures
  • Congenital deformities
  • Untreated joint infections
  • Bone tumors near joints

Types of Joint Replacement

1. Total Joint Replacement

Replaces entire joint with prosthetics (titanium, polyethylene, or ceramic). Common for knees and hips.

2. Partial Joint Replacement

Only damaged parts are replaced, e.g., unicompartmental knee replacement.

3. Minimally Invasive Surgery

Smaller incisions for faster recovery, ideal for younger, healthier patients.

Surgery Procedure

1. Pre-Operative Assessment

  • MRI or CT scans
  • Blood tests and general health evaluation
  • Anesthesia consultation

2. Surgical Process

  • General or spinal anesthesia
  • Incision to access the joint
  • Removal of damaged bone and cartilage
  • Installation of prosthetic, secured with cement or cementless methods
  • Closure and dressing

3. Duration

1-3 hours, depending on the joint and complexity.

Joint replacement procedure

Recovery and Post-Operative Care

1. Hospital Stay

3-5 days for hip or knee replacements.

2. Physiotherapy

  • Starts on day one
  • Exercises to restore range of motion
  • Strengthening muscles around the joint
  • Use of walker or crutches initially

3. Home Care

  • Prevent infection by keeping the wound clean
  • Avoid sudden movements or excessive pressure
  • Diet rich in calcium and protein

4. Return to Normal Activities

  • Driving: 4-6 weeks
  • Light work: 6-8 weeks
  • Heavy sports: 3-6 months

Advantages and Risks

1. Advantages

  • Significant pain reduction
  • Improved mobility and quality of life
  • Return to daily activities
  • Prosthetic lifespan of 15-20 years

2. Risks

  • Prosthetic infection
  • Blood clots (venous thrombosis)
  • Prosthetic loosening or dislocation
  • Limb length discrepancy (hip replacement)

Laser Knee Replacement

Laser-assisted knee replacement is a reliable method that minimizes post-operative pain. The high precision of lasers reduces damage to surrounding tissues, preserving as much of the natural joint as possible.

  • Less damage to surrounding nerves
  • Option for stem cell therapy
  • Bloodless procedure
Laser knee surgery

FAQs

Can knee replacement and bowleg/knock-knee correction be done simultaneously? Yes, with an experienced surgeon like Dr. Shahrestani, who has successfully performed hundreds of combined procedures.

Is a dental checkup necessary before surgery? Yes, to prevent infections from spreading to the surgical site.

What is post-operative pain like? Pain is normal but subsides during recovery. Persistent pain, swelling, fever, or redness should be reported to your doctor immediately.

Surgery with Hayyan

1. Initial Consultation

Submit medical records to Hayyan for evaluation.

2. Surgeon and Hospital Selection

Hayyan assigns the best surgeon and hospital.

3. Travel to Iran

  • Medical visa coordination (if needed)
  • Airport pickup and transfer to hotel/hospital

4. Surgery and Recovery

  • Minimally invasive surgery (when possible)
  • Physiotherapy in advanced clinics

Conclusion

Joint replacement surgery is a transformative solution for patients suffering from pain and mobility issues. Modern prosthetics offer durability and improved function. With skilled surgeons, proper care, and physiotherapy, outcomes are highly successful. Iran, with its expertise, affordability, and quality services, is a top destination for this procedure. Hayyan simplifies the process for international patients, ensuring a seamless experience.

📞 For more information, contact Hayyan today.

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Hayyan Medical Team

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