Knee prosthesis (joint replacement)
Assessment for knee pain and limitation due to wear and tear when other options are no longer achieving the expected control.
In this assessment you can obtain:
- Clarity on whether you are a candidate for joint replacement (or if another route is appropriate).
- A next step plan: studies, alternatives and preparation.
- Logistical guidance: location, timing and how insurance/refund works (if applicable).
What is joint replacement?
It is a surgery in which damaged articular surfaces are replaced by an implant to improve function and pain in selected cases. Not all people with knee or hip pain need it: the indication depends on symptoms, examination and studies.
When is the right time to consider this surgery?
It is usually considered when there is significant pain or stiffness that limits daily activities (walking, climbing stairs, getting up from a chair), pain even at rest, persistent swelling, deformity and/or when there is insufficient improvement with other treatments.
Do you identify with any of these situations?
The pain limits you from walking or doing basic activities.
You have already tried conservative management and are still limited.
You have a diagnosis of wear and tear (e.g., degenerative joint disease) and want to know your options.
For whom does it apply (and when is it not the first choice)?
The main problem seems to come from another structure or joint (defined in assessment). A reasonable conservative plan has not yet been attempted (individualized).
What you get in the valuation
What you do take away:
- Exploration and review of your symptoms.
- Review of studies (if you already have X-rays or MRI).
- Definition of routes: conservative vs. surgical (and why).
- Preparation and follow-up plan (what's next, in what order).
Before operating, here's what we explored
Conservative management is usually evaluated before surgery. Surgical indication is decided by pain + disability, not only by age.
Targeted rehabilitation
Changes in activity
Pain management
Infiltrations (depending on the case)
Your recovery, step by step
Contact and Pre-assessment: We start with a message to understand your case and guide you on what studies to bring.
Consultation and Diagnosis: We evaluate your joint and review your studies to identify the exact cause of the pain.
Treatment Design: We explain the options (from therapy to surgery) honestly, without pressure.
Scheduling and Logistics: If a procedure is required, we coordinate dates, insurance and hospital details.
Guided Recovery: We do not leave you alone; we monitor your evolution until you resume your activities.
What to prepare before surgery
Prior to surgery, teams often prescribe medication/supplement adjustments and plan for recovery supports (walker/cane, help at home), as appropriate.
Financial Transparency
- Previous studies (RX / MRI if available)
- List of drugs and relevant background information
- Key questions (we help you prioritize them)
What to expect during recovery
Recovery depends on your initial condition, previous mobility and rehabilitation plan. In general, it progresses in phases and it is normal to require support (walker/cane) at the beginning.
Activity: many teams recommend avoiding high-impact activities in favor of low-impact activities, according to medical indications.
Costs, insurance and payment options
Financial Transparency
We understand that the economic factor is key. The budget is customized according to your diagnosis, the type of implant and the hospital. We work with most of the Major Medical Insurance (GMM) and we guide you through the process. To give you an honest figure without surprises, we first perform the assessment and review of studies.
Location and logistics
Attention in Punta de Mita (Riviera Nayarit).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the knee prosthesis “cure” arthritis?
It is not a “cure”; it is a surgical option to improve function and pain in selected cases. The indication is defined after evaluation.
Who is a candidate for a knee prosthesis?
It is assessed by pain and disability, not only by age. Each case is evaluated individually.
What are the risks?
Risks such as infection, blood clots, nerve damage and implant problems over time are described; your risk depends on your clinical situation and is explained in consultation.
How long does a prosthesis last?
With normal use there is wear of the plastic component over time; duration varies by activity and other factors.
Will I be able to walk “normal”?
The goal is to improve function for low-impact activities; recovery and outcome depend on the case and rehabilitation.
What studies do I need?
If you already have X-rays or MRI, bring them. If not, an assessment will be carried out to determine which studies are most useful in your case.
How is cost defined?
Depends on hospital, implant/supplies and complexity. It is quoted after evaluation with studies.
Do you serve international patients?
Yes, with logistics for coordination of consultation and review of studies. See: /patients-international/
Dr. Francisco Rafael Hernández Pérez
Specialist in Orthopedics and Traumatology
- Prof. Card 8042876
- Cédula Esp. 10625160
- Punta Mita Hospital, Nayarit
Read reviews on Google
Do you have specific questions?
Dr. Francisco Rafael Hernández Pérez
Specialist in Orthopedics and Traumatology
- Prof. Card 8042876
- Cédula Esp. 10625160
- Punta Mita Hospital, Nayarit
Read reviews on Google