Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore)
MRCS (Edin)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCS (Ortho) (Edin)
Knee replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged or worn surfaces of a knee joint with a biocompatible artificial implant made of metal and plastic. This procedure is a well-established clinical intervention for severe knee arthritis (osteoarthritis) or advanced joint degeneration where cartilage has been significantly worn away.
The primary objective of the surgery is to restore functional mobility and reduce chronic knee pain, supporting a return to daily activities. Studies suggest that many modern implants remain functional for 15 to 20 years, though individual longevity depends on factors including activity level, body weight, and bone quality.
A 2020 study published in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery suggests that delaying clinically necessary knee replacement surgery can negatively impact overall knee function and may reduce the potential functional benefits received following the procedure. An assessment with an orthopaedic surgeon does not commit you to surgery.
The decision to proceed with surgery is always made on an individual basis following a thorough clinical evaluation. Patients who may benefit from a discussion with an orthopaedic surgeon commonly present with one or more of the following:
Pain that limits daily activities or disrupts sleep, particularly pain that has not responded adequately to non-surgical treatments.
Persistent swelling, tenderness, and warmth in the knee joint, often occurring when cartilage has worn away and bone surfaces begin to contact one another.
Stiff joints, difficulty bending or straightening the leg, and limitations to daily tasks such as climbing stairs or walking moderate distances.
Visible bowing of the leg or joint malalignment, which may indicate significant structural damage to the joint.
A sensation of the knee giving way during walking or standing, which can indicate significant ligament or joint deterioration.
Knee replacement may be considered when physiotherapy, medication, corticosteroid injections, and lifestyle modifications have not provided adequate relief.
The figures below are indicative ranges based on published MOH fee benchmark data for inpatient procedures at private hospitals in Singapore. Actual costs vary depending on procedure type, implant selection, hospital, ward class, anaesthesia, and duration of post-operative care. These figures should be used as a general reference only.
| Procedure | Indicative Cost Range (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Total Knee Replacement (TKR) | $36,000 – $50,000 |
| Partial (Unicompartmental) Knee Replacement | $22,000 – $35,000 |
| Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement (additional) | $3,000 – $6,000 above standard procedure cost |
| Consultation Fee | From $180 (up to 30 minutes) |
| Scheme | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| MediSave | Singapore citizens and permanent residents; claimable amount subject to CPF Board surgical schedule |
| MediShield Life | Covers inpatient hospitalisation; subject to policy limits and deductibles |
| Integrated Shield Plans | Additional coverage depending on insurer and policy tier |
| Pioneer Generation / Merdeka Generation | Additional subsidies applicable at restructured hospitals |
Source: Ministry of Health Singapore Fee Benchmarks. Figures are indicative, subject to change, and do not constitute a quotation. Patients are advised to request a written cost estimate from the clinic and hospital prior to proceeding with surgery.
MediSave withdrawal limits are set by the CPF Board and are subject to periodic revision. Please confirm your current entitlement directly with CPF or our clinic.
If you are a Singaporean citizen or permanent resident, MediSave can help offset part of your knee replacement costs. Coverage limits are set by the CPF Board and updated periodically — our clinic can confirm your current entitlement before surgery.
MediShield Life and Integrated Shield Plans may cover a significant portion of your bill, depending on your policy. Pioneer Generation and Merdeka Generation patients may also qualify for additional subsidies at restructured hospitals.
Contact our clinic for a personalised cost estimate and to find out what your insurance covers.
Surgical fees and implant costs are provided as indicative estimates only. Actual costs depend on individual clinical circumstances and should be confirmed in writing with your surgeon and hospital prior to proceeding. All fee information is consistent with benchmark guidance.
Knee replacement surgery is generally considered when knee pain and reduced mobility have become severe enough to interfere with daily activities, and when non-surgical treatments are no longer providing adequate relief. Surgical timing varies for each patient; it depends on the severity of your condition, your overall health, and your individual circumstances.
During a clinical assessment, Dr Wang considers the following factors when evaluating suitability for knee replacement surgery:
Yes, knee replacement surgery in Singapore is considered a major operation, supported by an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) care pathway — a structured, evidence-based approach to perioperative care. It is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia and involves removing the damaged portions of the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components.
With ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) protocols, most patients are discharged within 1 to 2 days of surgery and begin a structured rehabilitation programme. Discharge timing depends on individual clinical assessment and recovery progress.
Dr Wang Lushun developed and applied ERAS protocols during his tenure as Head of the Hip and Knee Division at Ng Teng Fong Hospital. He continues to use these evidence-based perioperative techniques in his current practice at Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre and Mount Alvernia Hospital.
Knee replacement surgery is carefully tailored to each patient’s condition, anatomy, and lifestyle requirements. The choice of procedure and implant is determined through a thorough clinical assessment, including a review of imaging findings.
The most appropriate procedure type is determined through a thorough clinical assessment. This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute a clinical recommendation.
Replaces the entire knee joint surface, comprising the ends of the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and in some cases the underside of the patella (kneecap), with biocompatible metal and polyethylene components.
Typically recommended for patients with widespread or advanced osteoarthritis affecting multiple compartments of the knee.
Replaces only the affected compartment of the knee, preserving healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments. The smaller incision and reduced tissue disruption are associated with a different recovery profile.
Suitable for patients with arthritis limited to a single compartment and preserved ligament stability, as determined by clinical assessment.
Uses a 3D CT-based model of the patient’s knee to pre-plan the procedure. During surgery, the system provides real-time data and haptic feedback, creating a virtual boundary that assists in bone preparation and implant alignment.
Intended to facilitate precise implant positioning tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy. Suitability is determined during clinical assessment.
A complete surgery where the original prosthesis is removed and a new artificial joint is put in. It is performed when a previous knee replacement has failed due to wear, infection, or loosening. Necessary for patients who have already undergone a knee replacement that is no longer functioning correctly or has reached the end of its lifespan.
Recovery timelines vary between individuals depending on age, overall health, activity level, and adherence to rehabilitation. The following is a general guide to what patients may expect. Individual outcomes may differ from those described below.
| Recovery Period | What to Expect: |
|---|---|
| Week 0 to 2 Immediately after surgery |
Rest and cold compress to manage pain and swelling. Pain medication prescribed according to individual requirements. Physiotherapy commenced to restore the range of motion and begin muscle strengthening. Early mobilisation as part of ERAS protocol. |
| Week 2 to 6 Early recovery |
Gradual increase in activity levels. Continued physiotherapy to improve strength and functional mobility. Use of assistive devices such as crutches or walking frames for mobility support. Progressive reduction in pain medication as recovery advances. |
| Week 6 to 12 Mid-recovery |
More progressive physiotherapy exercises introduced. Reduced use or discontinuation of assistive devices in most patients. Gradual return to daily activities, including light household tasks and short walks. |
| 12 weeks and beyond Longer-term recovery |
Regular exercise to maintain knee strength and mobility. Most patients discontinue assistive devices. Follow-up appointments with Dr Wang to monitor knee function and implant performance. Return to low-impact activity where clinically appropriate. |
More recent robotic platforms used in knee replacement surgery incorporate artificial intelligence to assist with pre-operative planning and intraoperative decision-making. Where conventional robotic systems use a CT-based anatomical model and haptic feedback to guide bone preparation within predefined boundaries, AI-integrated platforms additionally draw on machine learning algorithms trained on large surgical datasets — enabling implant positioning recommendations that incorporate each patient’s individual kinematics and soft tissue dynamics alongside bone morphology.
These systems are designed to assist the surgeon in making more precisely individualised decisions during the procedure. As with all surgical technology, the system functions as a tool — clinical judgement, intraoperative assessment, and surgical execution remain the surgeon’s responsibility throughout. Whether AI-guided robotic assistance is appropriate for a given patient is determined following a clinical assessment with Dr Wang.
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore)
MRCS (Edin)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCS (Ortho) (Edin)
Internationally Recognised & Double Fellowship-Trained Surgeon With Over 18 Years of Experience
As a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and former Head of the Hip and Knee Division in Ng Teng Fong Hospital, he has won awards for superior patient outcomes (value driven), service quality and enhanced recovery programmes. His patients include current and former national athletes and sporting professionals.
Dr Wang’s practice is structured to provide continuity of care throughout your treatment journey, from your initial consultation through to post-operative follow-up.
The most appropriate procedure type is determined through a thorough clinical assessment. This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute a clinical recommendation.
Dr Wang conducts all consultations, performs all surgical procedures, and oversees post-operative care personally. Patients see the same surgeon at each stage of their care.
Appointments are allocated sufficient time for a thorough assessment of your condition, review of imaging, and discussion of treatment options. Dr Wang will explain the reasoning behind any recommendations made.
Dr Wang operates at Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre and Mount Alvernia Hospital. Both hospitals offer a range of ward and room options, subject to availability at the time of admission.
We are on the specialist panels of major health insurance networks. Patients with Integrated Shield Plans or corporate insurance are welcome to enquire about coverage. MediSave may be used to offset eligible surgical costs.
Following your procedure, Dr Wang and his team support your recovery through a structured post-operative rehabilitation programme, with follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
A total knee replacement (TKR) resurfaces the entire knee joint, covering the femur, tibia, and in some cases the patella (kneecap). A partial knee replacement (PKR) replaces only the damaged compartment, preserving healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments. A clinical assessment and imaging studies are necessary to determine the most appropriate option for each individual. The extent of osteoarthritis and ligament integrity are among the key factors Dr Wang considers.
Based on Ministry of Health Singapore fee benchmark data, the typical cost of total knee replacement surgery at private hospitals ranges from approximately SGD 36,000 to SGD 50,000, with a median bill of around SGD 43,000. Actual costs depend on the procedure type, implant selection, hospital, ward class, and duration of post-operative care. Singaporean citizens and permanent residents may use MediSave and MediShield Life to offset a portion of costs. Please contact our clinic for a detailed estimate relevant to your circumstances.
Yes. Knee replacement surgery is an inpatient surgical procedure for which MediSave may be used under prevailing guidelines. The MediSave withdrawal limit is set by the CPF Board and is subject to periodic revision. Please confirm your current entitlement directly with CPF or contact our clinic prior to surgery. MediShield Life and Integrated Shield Plans may also provide additional coverage depending on your policy.
Recovery timelines vary between individuals. With ERAS protocols, most patients are discharged within 1 to 2 days and begin a structured physiotherapy programme. Many patients reduce their reliance on assistive devices by weeks 2 to 6 and return to more independent daily activities between weeks 6 to 12. Full functional recovery, including return to low-impact activity, typically occurs over several months. Individual outcomes depend on age, overall health, BMI, and adherence to rehabilitation.
Robotic-arm assisted technology uses a 3D CT-based model of the patient’s knee to pre-plan the surgical procedure. During surgery, the system provides real-time data and haptic feedback, creating a virtual boundary that assists the surgeon in bone preparation. This is intended to facilitate precise implant alignment tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy. Suitability for robotic-arm assisted surgery is determined during clinical assessment.
ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) is a multi-modal perioperative framework designed to reduce the physiological stress response following surgery. It involves specific anaesthesia techniques, early mobilisation within 24 hours, and structured pain management. The goal of this evidence-based approach is to support a systematic, structured return to daily activities. Individual recovery rates vary.
As with any major surgical procedure, knee replacement surgery carries potential risks, including infection, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), blood clots, implant loosening over time, nerve or vessel injury, and stiffness. Complication rates vary depending on individual health factors. Dr Wang will discuss the specific risks relevant to your circumstances during your consultation. This information is general in nature and does not replace a direct clinical discussion.
The surgical procedure itself typically takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the type of replacement and the patient’s individual anatomy. This is followed by a period in the recovery room before transfer to the ward. Discharge planning begins early as part of the ERAS protocol, with most patients discharged within 1 to 2 days of surgery.
Many patients return to low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling following a full recovery. High-impact sports such as running or contact sports are generally discouraged following knee replacement, as they may accelerate implant wear and reduce longevity. Dr Wang will advise on appropriate activity levels based on your implant type, recovery progress, activity history, and lifestyle requirements.
Studies suggest that many modern knee implants remain functional for 15 to 20 years. Longevity depends on individual factors, including activity level, body weight, bone quality, and implant type. Some patients may eventually require a revision procedure. Regular follow-up appointments with Dr Wang are recommended to monitor the long-term performance of the prosthetic joint.
Signs that may indicate implant wear or loosening include a new onset of persistent knee pain, a feeling of the knee giving way or reduced stability, and a decreased range of motion. If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact our clinic to arrange a review. Regular follow-up appointments are the most effective way to monitor implant performance over time.
Most patients are advised not to drive for a period following knee replacement surgery. The timing of return to driving depends on which knee was operated on, the type of vehicle you drive (automatic or manual transmission), your overall recovery progress, and your surgeon’s assessment. Dr Wang will provide specific guidance on this during your post-operative follow-up.
Stair climbing is typically introduced during your in-patient physiotherapy sessions before discharge from the hospital — usually within the first 1 to 2 days after surgery as part of the ERAS pathway. Initially, this is done with the support of handrails and guidance from a physiotherapist, leading with the non-operated leg when going up, and the operated leg when coming down.
Showering is generally permitted once your surgical wound is sufficiently healed and your dressings have been reviewed or removed by the clinical team. This is typically around 5 to 7 days after surgery, or as advised by Dr Wang at your first post-operative review. Bathing (immersing the wound in water) should be avoided until the wound is fully healed and cleared by your doctor.
The timeframe for returning to work depends significantly on the nature of your job, your rate of recovery, and the type of knee replacement performed. Patients in sedentary or desk-based roles may return sooner than those in physically demanding occupations. Dr Wang will advise a return-to-work timeline based on your individual clinical progress.
