Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) surgery is a common procedure performed to reconstruct a torn ACL, a major ligament in the knee. This injury often occurs during sports or activities that involve sudden changes in direction, jumping, or deceleration. The surgery aims to restore knee stability and function, enabling patients to return to their daily activities and sports. In Singapore, the cost of the surgery can vary significantly based on several factors, including the surgeon, hospital stay, and the specifics of the surgical procedure. Understanding these costs can help you make informed decisions about your treatment options.
Factors Influencing the Cost of ACL Surgery in Singapore
The cost of ACL surgery in Singapore can vary widely based on several factors. Understanding these factors can help patients anticipate the financial requirements and make informed choices about their treatment options.
Type of Healthcare Facility
The choice between a public hospital and a private hospital significantly impacts the cost of ACL surgery. Public hospitals generally offer lower costs due to government subsidies, with hospital facility fees costing approximately SGD 5,000 to SGD 8,000. In contrast, private hospitals may provide more personalised care and shorter waiting times but at a higher cost, typically ranging from SGD 12,000 to SGD 20,000 for facility fees.
Surgeon’s Experience and Reputation
The expertise and reputation of the surgeon performing the ACL surgery also affect the overall cost. Highly experienced surgeons or those with specialised expertise in orthopaedics may charge costs of around SGD 8,000 to SGD 15,000 for their services.
Surgical Technique
Different surgical techniques can be used for ACL reconstruction, including autograft (using the patient’s own tissue) and allograft (using donor tissue). The choice of technique and materials used can influence the cost. Autograft ACL surgery is generally less expensive as there is no additional cost for the donor graft. Allograft ACL surgery can be more expensive due to the additional costs associated with donor tissue.
There might also be associated soft tissue injuries such as meniscal, cartilage and other concomitant ligament tears that may require surgical repair / reconstruction at the same time as ACL reconstruction. These additional procedures can impact the total cost of the surgery as more implants / equipment are required.
Pre-Surgery Consultations and Diagnostic Tests
Initial consultations, diagnostic imaging (such as MRI scans), and pre-operative assessments add to the overall cost of ACL surgery. These preparatory steps are important for accurate diagnosis and surgical planning and typically amount to approximately SGD 1,000 to SGD 2,500.
Hospital Stay and Post-Surgery Care
The duration of the hospital stay and the level of post-surgery care required can vary, affecting the total cost. Most patients typically can be discharged on the same day of surgery or require 1 night stay and be discharged the next morning after physiotherapy.
Additional Treatments and Services
Some patients may require additional treatments such as physiotherapy, pain management, and follow-up consultations, all of which contribute to the overall cost of ACL surgery. These additional treatments typically amount to approximately SGD 2,000 to SGD 5,000.
Insurance and Financial Assistance
Coverage Options in Singapore
When considering ACL surgery in Singapore, it’s important to understand the different coverage options available. Many health insurance plans cover ACL surgery, but the extent of coverage can vary widely. It’s important to review your policy details to see if they include surgeon’s fees, anaesthesia, hospital charges, and rehabilitation. These components are important, as surgeon’s fees and anaesthesia can significantly add to the total cost, while hospital charges encompass room rates and operating theatre fees. Post-surgery rehabilitation is often required for recovery, so confirming if your plan includes physiotherapy and other rehabilitation services is also important.
Government Subsidies and Medisave
- Government Subsidies: Singapore citizens and permanent residents may be eligible for government subsidies if the surgery is performed in a public hospital. Subsidy levels depend on the ward class and individual eligibility.
- Medisave: Singaporeans can use their Medisave savings to pay for part of the surgical costs. The withdrawal limit for ACL surgery is typically capped at a specific amount, depending on the procedure and associated costs.
Conclusion
ACL surgery is a medical procedure that can involve considerable costs. Patients must consult with an orthopaedic surgeon for accurate cost estimates and to understand insurance coverage. By being informed about the factors influencing the cost of ACL surgery and the available insurance options, patients in Singapore can make well-informed decisions about their healthcare, ensuring a smoother and more financially manageable recovery process.
For further information or to schedule an appointment with a Dr LS Wang, contact our clinic.
