To homepage
820К+ patients have got assistance since 2014
50 countries
1,500 clinics
6K+ reviews
3K+ qualified doctors

How Much Does Knee replacement Cost in Italy?

Knee replacement in Italy typically costs from $14,000 to $24,000. The final price depends on the prosthetic brand, hospital location, and the surgeon expertise. In the US, this procedure costs $45,000 on average. Patients save approximately 58% by choosing Italian clinics. Packages often include pre-operative consultations, the implant, surgery, and several days of hospitalization.

  • Unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement: $12,000 to $18,000 for localized joint repair.
  • Revision knee arthroplasty: $22,000 to $35,000 for replacing existing implants.
  • Knee MAKOplasty: $20,000 to $30,000 for robotic-assisted precision surgery.
  • Facility location: Packages in Milan may cost 15-20% more than in regional cities.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Choosing high-volume centers in Milan offers unique value for complex cases. IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi - Sant'Ambrogio performs 75% of Italy's revision surgeries. This high specialization ensures expertise with premium Zimmer Biomet implants. Packages there run approximately $27,550 and include professional language assistance. Dr. Roberto Danchise at this facility has already performed over 2,100 successful knee replacements.

Key Benefits

Why do patients choose Italy for knee replacement?

  • Accredited clinics: JCI-certified hospitals ensure high standards of care and patient safety.
  • Latest technologies: The NAVIO robotic system is used to enhance precision in knee surgeries. This approach helps reduce pain, shortens recovery time, and minimizes complications.
  • High success rates: Knee replacement procedures in Italy have an efficacy rate of 90-95%. This ensures improved joint function for various patient conditions.
  • Expert surgeons: Renowned specialists such as Dr. Roberto D’Anchise have extensive experience in knee surgery. They perform numerous procedures annually and hold comprehensive certifications.

Access advanced Knee replacement solutions in trusted clinics .

ItalyTurkeyAustria
Knee replacementfrom $14,000from $6,500from $20,000
Unicompartmental (partial) knee replacementfrom $12,000from $3,500from $14,000
Total knee replacement (arthroplasty) revisionfrom $19,000from $7,072from $27,000
Total knee replacement (TKR) with OMNIfrom $18,000from $8,500from $25,000
Revision knee arthroplastyfrom $22,000from $6,000from $30,000
Data verified by Bookimed as of May 2026, based on patient requests and official quotes from 236 clinics worldwide. Median costs are based on real invoices (2025–2026) and updated monthly. Actual prices may vary.

Your Benefits and Guarantees with Bookimed

Transparent Prices & Flexible Installments

No hidden fees – just official clinic prices. Pay at the clinic for Knee replacement upon arrival and use a flexible installment plan if needed.

Verified Clinics & Doctors Only

Bookimed is committed to your safety. We only work with medical institutions that maintain high international standards in Knee replacement and have the necessary licenses to serve international patients worldwide.

Free 24/7 Assistance

Bookimed offers free expert assistance. A personal medical coordinator supports you before, during, and after your treatment, solving any issues. You're never alone on your Knee replacement journey.

Why we?

Your personal Bookimed medical coordinator

  • Supports you at every stage
  • Helps choose the right clinic and doctor
  • Ensures quick and convenient access to information

Discover the Best Knee replacement Clinics in Italy: 8 Verified Options and Prices

The Bookimed clinic ranking is based on data science algorithms, providing a trusted, transparent, and objective comparison. It takes into account patient demand, review scores (both positive and negative), the frequency of updates to treatment options and prices, response speed, and clinic certifications.
San Donato Hospital
IRCCS OSPEDALE GALEAZZI - SANT'AMBROGIO
Ospedale San Carlo di Nancy

Knee replacement in Italy: Your Travel Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Italy
  • You should arrive at the airport in Italy with all necessary documents, including your passport and medical records.
  • Arrange transportation to your accommodation. Ensure it is close to the hospital where your knee replacement is scheduled.
  • Rest and acclimate to the time zone to prepare for upcoming medical appointments and procedures.
Day 2: Pre-operative Consultation and Evaluation
  • You need to attend a pre-operative consultation at the hospital. Share all necessary imaging (MRI, CT SCAN) in DICOM format and medical reports as previously requested via platforms like wetransfer.com.
  • Discuss your medical case and treatment plan. Consider using the second opinion service and online consultation if not already done. Finalize any last-minute details with the specialist, possibly Dr. D’Anchise if you opted for Galeazzi Hospital.
  • Undergo any additional diagnostics if required, such as blood tests or physical evaluations.
  • Receive detailed instructions on pre-surgery preparation, including fasting requirements and medication guidelines.
Day 3: Rest and Preparation
  • You should follow any dietary restrictions or medication protocols as advised by the medical team.
  • Ensure you have comfortable clothing and necessary personal items packed for the hospital stay.
  • Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest to ensure your body is in optimal condition for the surgery.
Day 4: Surgery Day
  • You need to arrive at the hospital at the designated time, typically early morning, for the knee replacement surgery.
  • The procedure may involve advanced technology such as the NAVIO robotic system, known for reducing pain and ensuring better joint movement.
  • Expect to spend several hours in surgery and recovery, monitored by medical staff.
  • Post-surgery, you may be transferred to a suite room where a companion can stay with you, as some hospitals include this in their package.
Day 5-7: Hospital Recovery
  • You will receive medical and nursing assistance as you begin the initial recovery phase in the hospital.
  • Engage in light physical therapy exercises to promote joint movement and prevent stiffness.
  • Follow a prescribed pain management regimen to manage post-operative discomfort.
  • Communicate any concerns or complications to the medical team immediately.
Day 8-10: Discharge and Initial Home Recovery
  • Upon discharge, receive detailed instructions for home recovery, including physical therapy exercises and medication schedules.
  • Arrange transportation back to your accommodation. Ensure you have assistance if needed due to mobility limitations.
  • Continue prescribed exercises and follow up on any scheduled outpatient appointments or consultations.
  • Maintain open communication with the clinic for any questions or concerns during this phase.
Day 11-14: Continued Recovery and Follow-up
  • You should focus on gradually increasing mobility and strength through continued physical therapy.
  • Attend any follow-up appointments or virtual consultations to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
  • Ensure you adhere to dietary and lifestyle recommendations to support healing and overall health.
  • Prepare for your return journey home, considering any travel restrictions or medical advice regarding flying post-surgery.
Day 15: Return Home
  • Ensure you have all necessary documentation and medical records for your return journey.
  • Arrange for assistance at the airport if mobility is still limited.
  • Once home, continue with prescribed rehabilitation and maintain communication with your local healthcare provider for ongoing recovery support.
  • Contact the clinic in Italy if any post-operative issues arise or if further consultation is needed.

Our Doctors

View all Doctors
verified

Roberto Danchise

53 years of experience

Performed Italy's first meniscus transplant – Dr. Danchise specializes in advanced knee procedures at IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi.

  • Trained in knee replacement in London and New York
  • Specialized in orthopedics and traumatology at University of Milan
  • Chair of the Italian Society for Knee Surgery
  • Member of multiple international orthopedic associations
verified

Raul Zini

47 years of experience

15,000+ surgeries performed – Dr. Zini specializes in knee replacements and sports-related orthopedic conditions at Maria Cecilia Hospital.

  • 1,215 hip arthroscopies between 2009 and 2015
  • Coordinator of Orthopedics and Traumatology since 2007
  • Treated many professional athletes including Sasha Djordjevic
  • Author of 100+ publications in orthopedic research
  • Twice awarded the Bellando-Randone Prize for best monographs
verified

Vincenzo De Santis

26 years of experience

The doctor serves as the Director of the Orthopedics and Traumatology Complex Operational Unit at Mater Olbia Hospital. Holding a degree in Medicine and Surgery and a Certificate of Specialist in Orthopedic Surgery from Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, the doctor also completed a PhD in Experimental Methodologies and Technological Applications in Angiology, Vascular Surgery, and Orthopedics.

Specializing in hip and knee prosthetic surgery, sports traumatology, and arthroscopic knee surgery, the doctor has performed over 5500 surgical procedures, with over 2500 as the primary operator. From 2009 to 2020, the doctor taught Orthopedic and Traumatology at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore.

Reviews about Bookimed: Discover Patients' Insights

All reviews
Matthew Buckley • MRI of one area
United Kingdom
May 8, 2019
Verified review.
Drs seemed very good. The consultation was calm and professional but I was told I would have results within 2 working days. When I didn’t receive any information I returned to the hospital and was told I would be emailed within 24 hours. When that didn’t happen I had to come in again and was hugely surprised by a very rude and impatient receptionist who was dismissive and seemed to want to blame me somehow. She made some very unprofessional comments about me to colleagues in front of other patients when she thought I couldn’t hear. Other staff did their best to help afterwards but considering the money spent and my experience I would not recommend this place at all.
Anonymous • Consultation with an orthopaedist
Italy
Oct 21, 2022
Verified review.
I went to the Galeazzi clinic. Milan. Italy. on my son's problem - gmgantism. Coordinators from Bookimed got involved. Had an online consultation. for which I paid 360 euros. All required documentation has been sent. references. analyses. x-rays. To determine the volume of the operation and the cost, they said that the patient needs to come to Milan. I'm from Ukraine. It's hard to describe how the journey cost me. with what difficulty. Upon arrival in Milan. we are consulted by another doctor and gives quite the opposite answer.!! Is it really impossible to agree and view all the documentation. y t. h and the video was sent!!! with immediately give a negative answer during an online consultation. why do it at all then? It's just a waste of money. not problem solving. Be careful!
About Bookimed service
absolutely not
Сергей • Consultation with an orthopaedist
Russian Federation
Aug 16, 2021
Verified review.
"If I need to, I will definitely use the services of Bookimed
Hello. Bookimed organization was excellent. I was greeted very warmly, they sent a car for me, I did not stand in any queues. Honey. the autumn staff carried out a detailed and high-quality survey. I am very glad. The clinic and the specialists are wonderful. I would especially like to note and thank Yulia, who literally did not leave me a single step, was my translator, was very attentive and professional. If I need to, I will definitely use the services of Bookimed. Thanks for all.
About Bookimed service
Yes
Володимир Яворський • Conservative treatment of scoliosis
Ukraine
Nov 28, 2018
Verified review.
"A trip to the clinic was done by Yana
Hello, I have serious scoliosis and some other health problems, it is necessary to operate scoliosis and preferably as soon as possible since it will only get worse ... In Ukraine, everyone refused to operate because there was a very big risk, Poland also refused ... Then I My coordinator Pavel Popkov wrote to Bookimed just a great person, he answers any questions even to stupid ones, he sent my documents to different clinics and finally the Galeazzi clinic was told to come for a detailed consultation ... The consultation was successful, everything seems to be going positive, waiting for a final decision from them! A trip to the clinic was done by Yana. She got us free tickets for a special program.
Кайрат • Ankylosing spondylitis
Kazakhstan
Aug 27, 2022
Verified review.
"We had a consultation with a doctor
We had a consultation with a doctor. Despite his youth, the specialist was very qualified and friendly. Clinic conditions are excellent
About Bookimed service
Satisfied
Nazar Lozhkin • Hip replacement
Ukraine
Mar 13, 2018
Verified review.
Thank you!
Anastasia Epaneshnikova • Hip replacement
Russian Federation
Feb 21, 2019
Verified review.
Consultation pleased!
The consultation went well and the doctor was good. The girl coordinator, in place, is a good translator. Consultation pleased!
Nazar Lozhkin • Hip replacement
Ukraine
Jun 11, 2018
Verified review.
Thank you
Very satisfied with the trip. Quality and capacious advice. Thank you

Knee replacement: Before & after photos

View all

Related Articles

Share this content

Video Stories from Bookimed Patients

Dayana
I combined my vacation in Antalya with a check-up.
Procedure: Female check-up
Igor
It was great! Transfers, accommodation, treatment—all included.
Procedure: Dental Implant
Marina
Bookimed did everything for me. I didn't have to worry about anything.
Procedure: Female check-up
Updated: 10/21/2022
Authored by
Anna Leonova
Anna Leonova
Head of Content Marketing Team
A certified medical writer with 10+ years of experience, developed Bookimed’s trusted content, backed by a Master’s in Philology and medical expert interviews worldwide.
Fahad Mawlood
Medical Editor & Data Scientist
General practitioner. Winner of 4 scientific awards. Served in Western Asia. Former Team Leader of a medical team supporting Arabic-speaking patients. Now responsible for data processing and medical content accuracy.
Fahad Mawlood Linkedin
This page may feature information relating to various medical conditions, treatments, and healthcare services available in different countries. Please be advised that the content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or guidance. Please consult with your doctor or a qualified medical professional before starting or changing medical treatment.

Our Knee replacement Techniques: What Suits You Best?

When considering Knee replacement, it’s important to understand the different techniques and which is best suited for you. Here’s a concise comparison of popular options:

Knee Arthroscopy

A minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems in the knee joint by inserting a small camera and instruments through tiny incisions.

Pros: Offers quicker recovery times than open surgery, with fewer complications. Studies show up to 80% success in treating meniscal tears.
Cons: Limited to minor repairs and may not address severe arthritis. There's a 10-20% chance of needing further surgery.
Effectiveness: Effective in 70-90% of cases for relieving pain and improving function.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Recovery: 1-6 weeks
Best for: Meniscal tears, loose fragments, and mild to moderate cartilage damage.

Unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement

This procedure involves replacing only one compartment of the knee joint, preserving more of the patient's natural bone and ligaments.

Pros: Retains more natural knee function with 85% of patients reporting a more natural feel compared to total knee replacement. Smaller incision results in quicker recovery.
Cons: Not suitable for patients with severe arthritis affecting multiple compartments. Revision rate is higher, with about 10% needing further surgery within 10 years.
Effectiveness: 10-year survival rate is approximately 85%.
Duration: 1-2 hours.
Recovery: 3-6 months.
Best for: Patients with arthritis confined to a single knee compartment. Ideal for those under 60 years old.

Knee MAKOplasty

Knee MAKOplasty is a minimally invasive knee surgery using robotic assistance to ensure precise implant placement.

Pros: Provides more precision than traditional knee surgery, with a 90% success rate in pain reduction. Minimally invasive, leading to smaller incisions and less scarring.
Cons: Requires specialized equipment and training, which may not be available in all facilities. Longer learning curve for surgeons compared to traditional methods.
Effectiveness: 98% accuracy in implant positioning, enhancing joint function and longevity.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Recovery: 4-6 weeks
Best for: Patients with osteoarthritis affecting one or two knee compartments. Suitable for individuals seeking faster recovery.

FAQ about Knee replacement in Italy

These FAQs come from real patients seeking medical assistance through Bookimed. Answers are given by experienced medical coordinators and trusted clinic representatives.

How long does a knee prosthesis last?

A modern knee prosthesis typically lasts between 15 and 25 years. Survival data indicates that 93% of implants function effectively for 15 years, while approximately 82% remain intact after 25 years. Longevity depends on patient activity levels, body weight, and the use of advanced materials.

  • Material quality: Implants use highly cross-linked polyethylene and titanium for long-term wear resistance.
  • Surgical precision: Advanced systems like MAKOplasty ensure accurate alignment to reduce mechanical stress.
  • Patient age: Younger patients under 55 have a 35% higher lifetime revision risk.
  • Weight impact: Regular low-impact exercise helps preserve the joint and prevents early loosening.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Italian centers like IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi - Sant'Ambrogio specialize in longevity by handling 75% of Italy's revision surgeries. This high volume means surgeons here possess unique expertise in managing complex mechanical failures. Choosing a facility with such specialized data often leads to better primary implant positioning.

Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize that maintaining a healthy weight is the most practical way to extend the life of their new knee. Successful recipients often mention that returning to low-impact sports like swimming helps them stay active without damaging the prosthesis.

What is included in a private knee-replacement package?

Private knee replacement packages in Italy typically include the orthopedic surgeon and anesthesiologist fees, a premium prosthesis like Zimmer Biomet, and clinical hospitalization for 6 days. These bundles provide medical assistance using advanced arthroscopy or MAKOplasty robotics in IRCCS-accredited research hospitals.

  • Medical fees: Covers high-volume orthopedic surgeons and full surgical team professional fees.
  • Hospital stay: Includes 6 days of inpatient care in specialized orthopedic wards.
  • Implant cost: Features high-quality artificial joints from reputable brands like Zimmer Biomet.
  • Support services: Includes professional language assistance and initial orthopedist consultations for international patients.

Bookimed Expert Insight: While many think only of the surgery, Italy's IRCCS-accredited hospitals like GALEAZZI-SANT'AMBROGIO perform 75% of the country's revision surgeries. This high volume means their orthopedic teams have mastered complex cases that standard clinics rarely see. If you are seeking a first-time replacement, choosing a center that specializes in revisions ensures a significantly higher safety margin for your primary procedure.

Patient Consensus: Patients value the extended 6-day hospital stays in Italy, which provide more professional monitoring than the rapid discharge common in other countries. The presence of language assistants also helps reduce the stress of navigating a foreign medical system.

What is the recovery timeline after knee replacement?

Knee replacement recovery following surgery in Italy typically lasts 12 months, though most patients resume everyday activities within 6 to 12 weeks. While initial walking begins within 24 hours, full strength and maximum mobility require consistent physical therapy over several months for optimal joint function.

  • Hospital stay: Expect 6 days of inpatient care for monitoring and initial physical therapy.
  • Initial mobility: Patients transition from walkers to canes within 1 to 3 weeks post-surgery.
  • Daily independence: Most individuals drive and return to desk work after 4 to 6 weeks.
  • Low-impact sports: Activities like swimming or cycling are usually permitted by the 12-week mark.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Italian orthopedic centers like Galeazzi Sant-Ambrogio specialize in complex revisions, performing 75% of Italy's revision surgeries. This high volume means surgeons handle difficult cases daily, which often translates to more refined recovery protocols for first-time total knee replacements. Choosing a high-volume facility ensures your post-op plan benefits from hundreds of thousands of annual patient data points.

Which hospitals in Italy are considered leaders for knee replacement?

Italy features top-tier orthopedic centers led by IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi - Sant'Ambrogio in Milan, which manages 75% of the nation's revision surgeries. Key leaders include Maria Cecilia Hospital and specialized clinics in Rome utilizing robotic NAVIO systems and high-precision Zimmer Biomet implants.

  • Galeazzi - Sant'Ambrogio: Italy's top facility for orthopedic admissions and complex joint revisions.
  • Maria Cecilia Hospital: JCI-accredited center awarded for excellence in treating severe orthopedic disorders.
  • Expert surgical volume: Dr. Raul Zini has completed over 15,000 successful orthopedic operations.
  • Innovation leader: Dr. Roberto Danchise performed the first meniscus transplant in Italy.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Galeazzi - Sant'Ambrogio stands out as a high-volume powerhouse, managing 75% of Italy's orthopedic revisions. This concentration of complex cases suggests their surgical teams possess unique experience that standard clinics lack. If your case involves a secondary surgery or complex anatomy, their specialized focus offers a significant safety advantage over general hospitals.

Who are some of Italy’s leading knee-replacement surgeons?

Italy hosts world-class orthopedic specialists in Milan and Rome, including Dr. Roberto Danchise, who performed the first meniscus transplant in Italy. These surgeons work within IRCCS-accredited research hospitals, utilizing robotic systems and Zimmer Biomet implants for high-precision total and partial joint replacements.

  • Dr. Roberto Danchise: Performs complex reconstructions at IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi - Sant'Ambrogio after 2,100+ knee replacements.
  • Dr. Raul Zini: Operates at Maria Cecilia Hospital with 15,000+ surgeries and experience treating professional athletes.
  • Dr. Vincenzo De Santis: Leads orthopedic surgery at Mater Olbia Hospital, specializing in computer-assisted robotic replacements.
  • Dr. Nicola Ursino: Head of Joint Replacement at Galeazzi, focusing on minimally invasive prosthesis techniques.

Bookimed Expert Insight: While many seek initial surgeries, IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi - Sant'Ambrogio is a critical hub for complex cases. It performs 75% of all revision orthopedic surgeries in Italy. If you have a failed previous implant, this facility offers the highest level of specialized salvage expertise in the country.

How long are waiting lists for knee replacement in Italy?

Waiting lists for knee replacement in Italy typically range from 4 to 12 months within the public health system. Priority Class A cases may receive surgery within 30 days, while private clinics in Milan or Rome often reduce wait times to just 2 to 4 weeks.

  • Public priority system: Targets 30 to 60 days for urgent cases and 180+ days for moderate symptoms.
  • Specialist consultation: Initial orthopedic visits in the public sector average a 5-month waiting period.
  • Private facility access: Specialized hospitals like IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi - Sant'Ambrogio offer significantly faster scheduling.
  • Regional variation: Northern regions like Tuscany often report shorter average wait times of 120 days.

Bookimed Expert Insight: While public lists are long, Italy’s specialized centers offer world-class efficiency for complex cases. IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi - Sant'Ambrogio performs 75% of Italy's revision surgeries. Choosing such a high-volume facility ensures access to experts like Dr. Roberto Danchise, who has performed over 2,100 knee replacements.

How long should I plan to stay in Italy for surgery and early recovery?

Plan for a 14 to 21 day stay in Italy for a knee replacement. This timeframe allows for 1 to 2 days of preoperative consultation, 6 days of specialized inpatient care, and sufficient local recovery time to ensure travel clearance before your flight home.

  • Hospital stay: Expect 6 days of inpatient care for initial monitoring and mobilization.
  • Recovery residency: Dedicate 10 to 14 days in local accommodation for essential follow-up.
  • Flight safety: Surgeons typically advise waiting at least 14 days before flying to prevent DVT.
  • Package duration: Most Italian surgical programs calculate about 9 days of dedicated clinical oversight.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Italian orthopedic centers often show a specialization gap you can use to your advantage. While many clinics offer standard knee procedures, IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi - Sant'Ambrogio handles 75% of Italy's orthopedic revision surgeries. Choosing such a high-volume facility often results in more efficient 6-day hospital protocols due to standardized recovery pathways.

Get a free consultation

Select the best way to contact you