Orthopaedics

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Abroad

Arthroscopic (or keyhole) knee surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat pain, stiffness, or limited mobility caused by issues like torn cartilage, ligament damage, or loose bone fragments inside the joint. With Thera Travel, you can skip NHS waiting lists and access fast, expert care at leading European clinics - featuring modern facilities, English-speaking specialists, and treatment that meets strict international standards. All at significantly lower cost than in the UK, with full support from consultation to recovery.
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Thera Travel Doctors
4.2

Star Reviews

Better Care Than the NHS, at Half the Price
I travelled to Kraków for a total knee replacement after waiting 18 months on the NHS list. The clinic was spotless, the staff all spoke excellent English, and the surgeon was clearly experienced. I was walking with a frame by day two. The physiotherapy was more intensive than I expected, which helped with recovery. Including travel and hotel, it still cost less than going private in the UK. Highly recommended.
David R. (Manchester)
Country Visited: Poland
Hip Replacement in Riga – No Regrets
After doing quite a bit of research, I booked a hip replacement in Riga. The hospital looked more like a hotel, and the nursing care was exceptional. I had a private room with a view over the river. Communication was good throughout, with a coordinator who handled airport transfers and appointments. It's now three months later and I’m back to gardening. Would choose Latvia again over private UK care.
Sandra T. (London)
Country Visited: Latvia
Professional, Efficient, and No Hidden Costs
Had my right knee replaced in Warsaw after a friend recommended the clinic. Everything was as described—pre-surgery scans, consultation, surgery, and rehab—all done in under two weeks. No upselling, no unexpected fees. I appreciated how transparent the pricing was compared to some UK providers. Very impressed.
Michael B. (Glasgow)
Country Visited: Poland
Quick Recovery and Excellent Follow-Up
I was nervous about travelling for surgery, but my experience in Latvia was reassuring from start to finish. The surgeon explained everything clearly, and the physiotherapy team worked with me daily. I even had video follow-ups after returning to the UK. I’m walking unaided now, which I hadn’t done properly in over a year. Thank you to the whole team in Riga.
Carolyn M. (Leeds)
Country Visited: Latvia
Superior to My Local NHS Hospital
Opted for hip replacement in Gdańsk due to the NHS backlog. What struck me most was the attention to detail and the level of care. From airport pickup to post-op physiotherapy, everything ran smoothly. They even arranged a companion room for my wife. I had less swelling than after my previous surgery in the UK. Would definitely go abroad again if needed.
James E. (Birmingham)
Country Visited: Poland

Why Choose

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Abroad

Choosing to have arthroscopic knee surgery abroad is becoming increasingly popular with UK and Irish patients who want faster, more affordable care without compromising on quality. Here's why:

Swift Scheduling

Get your arthroscopy within 2–4 weeks, rather than waiting 12 months or more at home.

Save up to 65 %

Complete packages from about £750, covering surgery, stay and physio.

EU-Regulated Quality

ISO-accredited clinics follow strict EU standards for safety and hygiene.

Trusted Surgeons

UK-trained consultants, many on the GMC register, perform your procedure.

All-Inclusive Care

Private room, meals, English-speaking coordinator and airport transfers are part of the deal.

What happens during

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Abroad

0
1
2
3
4
5
01

Consultation and Planning

• Detailed assessment with your orthopaedic surgeon, including MRI or diagnostic imaging if needed.
• Personalised surgical plan developed based on your symptoms and lifestyle.
• General anaesthetic is typically used so you’re fully asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure.

02

Keyhole Incisions

• Surgeon makes 2–3 tiny incisions (5–10mm) to access the knee joint.
• A miniature camera (arthroscope) provides a live view inside the joint.
• Specialised tools are inserted through the incisions to carry out the procedure.

03

Joint Assessment and Repair

• The surgeon examines cartilage, meniscus, and ligaments for damage.
• Common issues treated include torn meniscus, cartilage fragments, and inflammation.
• Damaged tissue is trimmed, repaired, or smoothed using precise instruments.

04

Closure and Dressing

• Instruments and camera are removed, and incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips.
• A sterile dressing is applied to keep the area clean and protected.
• You’ll be monitored post-op before being discharged (same day or next morning).

05

Recovery and Rehabilitation

• Physiotherapy begins within 24–48 hours to restore movement and prevent stiffness.
• Most patients walk unaided within days and return to light activity within 2–4 weeks.
• Follow-up support includes virtual check-ins and personalised rehab plans.

Price Comparison: EU vs UK

Location
Average Cost
What's Included
UK (Private)
£4,000–£6,000
Surgery
Poland
£1,500
Surgery, stay, rehab, private room, no hidden fees
Latvia
£750
Surgery, stay, rehab, private room, no hidden fees
Czech Republic
£1,600
Surgery, stay, rehab, private room, no hidden fees

Whether you need a diagnostic procedure or a more advanced intervention, keyhole knee surgery abroad offers real value - without compromising on safety or care. For more information on full joint replacement options, see our detailed guide to knee surgery replacement costs.

What Happens During Knee Arthroscopy?

  • A tiny camera (arthroscope) is inserted through a small incision.
  • Saline is used to expand the joint for visibility.
  • The surgeon removes or repairs damaged tissue (e.g., meniscus).
  • The procedure usually takes 30–90 minutes under spinal or general anaesthesia.
  • Small stitches close the incision.

Common conditions treated:

  • Meniscus tears (horizontal, radial, complex)
  • Ligament injuries (minor repairs)
  • Loose cartilage fragments
  • Synovial inflammation,especially compared to the more invasive surgeries they feared it might resemble. If your consultant has advised knee arthroscopy, it's likely because it's the safest and most efficient option for your condition.

What Recovery Looks Like After Meniscus or Keyhole Surgery

Week 1–4:

  • Primary goals are to control swelling and pain using ice, elevation, and prescribed medication.
  • Begin gentle range-of-motion exercises.
  • Walking may begin with crutches, typically weaned off by the end of Week 2 for most patients.
  • Most patients can return to sedentary work or desk-based tasks by Week 3, depending on their progress and surgeon advice.

Week 4–8:

  • Physiotherapy becomes more structured, with a focus on restoring full range of motion and beginning light strength exercises (e.g., bodyweight squats, straight-leg raises).
  • Some patients may start using a stationary bike or swimming (with no twisting or kicking motions).
  • Stiffness and occasional discomfort are normal but should continue to improve.

Week 8–12:

  • Most patients resume low-impact sports or fitness activities such as cycling, aqua therapy, elliptical training, or gentle yoga.
  • Physiotherapy focuses on regaining neuromuscular control and building quadriceps strength.
  • Return to light manual jobs or prolonged standing may be possible by Week 10, depending on surgeon clearance.

Month 3 onwards:

  • Full functional recovery is expected for the majority of patients.
  • Return to higher-impact activity (e.g., running, racket sports) may be considered after a successful clinical assessment.
  • Ongoing home exercise and maintenance routines are advised to ensure long-term joint health.

Additional Notes:

  • Crutches or a knee brace may be needed for 1–2 weeks, depending on procedure complexity.
  • Rehab options include outpatient physiotherapy or daily in-clinic sessions if you stay abroad for longer recovery.
  • Adherence to physiotherapy significantly impacts long-term outcomes; most clinics provide a take-home recovery plan.

Where Will I Go?

Popular destinations include:

  • Allmedica Clinic – Nowy Targ, Poland
    Located near Kraków, Allmedica Clinic combines modern surgical facilities with personalised care. The clinic is known for its fast scheduling, transparent pricing, and English-speaking staff. Patients receive one-to-one pre-op and post-op attention, with private hospital accommodation included in the package. Direct flights from the UK to Kraków make travel convenient, with a short transfer to the clinic.
    “The facilities were spotless, and I had surgery within 10 days of making an enquiry. It felt like a private UK hospital, but much more affordable.”
  • ORTO Klīnika – Riga, Latvia
    ORTO is one of the leading orthopaedic clinics in the Baltics, specialising in joint and sports injury procedures. With over 15 years' experience and a focus on minimally invasive arthroscopy, it offers tailored treatment packages for international patients. English-speaking coordinators help manage travel, hospital admission, and aftercare. Flights to Riga are available from most major UK airports.
    “I travelled from Birmingham to Riga, had keyhole knee surgery, and was back home in four days. The surgeon explained everything clearly, and the team was exceptional throughout.”

Is Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Overseas Safe?

Arthroscopic knee surgery performed abroad can be just as safe,and in some cases safer,than the equivalent procedure done privately in the UK. Clinics in Poland, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic are regulated under EU healthcare directives and operate to strict hygiene, sterilisation, and patient safety protocols.

  • Many clinics have ISO 9001 or JCI certifications, ensuring rigorous quality control.
  • Surgeons at major centres often carry UK General Medical Council (GMC) or similar international certifications.
  • Some of these surgeons perform over 400 arthroscopies annually, with published complication rates under 1%, according to clinic data.

One patient, Robert L. from Gloucester, wrote: “I was nervous about travelling to Riga, but the care was better than any I’d experienced in the UK. The hospital was spotless, the staff were kind, and I was home in five days walking without pain."

Why patients feel confident:

  • English-speaking surgical and nursing teams: ensures clear communication throughout
  • Private ensuite rooms, 24/7 nurse availability, and daily cleaning protocols
  • Transparent, fixed-fee packages: all costs agreed in advance, with no unexpected extras

Clinics abroad also offer better post-op monitoring than many UK NHS settings due to smaller patient loads, allowing more time per patient. The majority of international patients report high satisfaction and say they would recommend the experience.

How to Book Your Knee Surgery Abroad

Booking your knee surgery abroad is straightforward and fully supported by us from day one. Here’s how it works:

Step-by-step:

  1. Speak to a patient care coordinator – Your first step is to have a friendly chat with one of our dedicated coordinators. They’ll listen to your needs, answer questions about the procedure, and walk you through the options that best suit your case. No pressure, just honest guidance.
  2. Receive a personalised treatment plan – Based on your medical history and requirements, you’ll be given a full quote with treatment details, travel timings, and recovery expectations. You’ll know exactly what’s included and what to expect.
  3. Schedule your treatment – Once you're happy with the proposal, you can book a surgery date. Most procedures are scheduled within 2–4 weeks, depending on availability.
  4. Travel and receive treatment – Our team will help arrange everything from airport transfers to hotel recommendations. You’ll have local support from English-speaking coordinators at every stage, from check-in to discharge.
  5. Post-surgery follow-up – After you return home, you’ll receive written recovery instructions, remote check-in appointments if needed, and a copy of your treatment records to share with your GP or physiotherapist.

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We have a 4.7 Trustpilot rating. 500+ patients helped.

Patient Reviews & Experiences

“From the first inquiry to flying home, the support was exceptional.”
“Clean, efficient, friendly. I wish I’d gone abroad sooner.”
“Top-class care for half the price of UK surgery.”
“From the moment I landed, an English-speaking nurse met me at arrivals, and I had my first physio session within 24 hours of surgery. I never felt rushed - just cared for.”

– Mark L.

29-year-old five-a-side footballer
(ACL reconstruction, Poland)
“Before I travelled to Latvia for my knee surgery, I was hesitant. But honestly, it felt more like checking into a hotel than a hospital. My room was private and spotless, with a big window and meals brought in three times a day. It was quiet, calm, and the staff couldn’t have been more attentive. That level of comfort helped me recover quickly, and I never felt rushed out the door.”
“Is it safe?”“I had the same question. But after speaking with my care coordinator and reading about the clinic’s certifications, I felt reassured. The hospital in Poland was modern and far cleaner than the NHS ward I’d visited previously. My surgeon explained everything clearly, and all the nurses spoke fluent English. By the time I left, I felt I’d received care that matched,or exceeded,what I could have had in the UK.”
“Before going to Latvia for my hip replacement, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But it honestly felt more like staying at a hotel. My private room was spotless, meals were delivered to my bedside, and everything was calm and well-organised. The attention to comfort made a real difference in my recovery.”
“Is it safe?” “I wondered the same. But after reviewing the clinic’s credentials and talking to the coordinator, I was confident. The hospital in Poland was cleaner and more modern than the NHS ward I’d seen. My surgeon took time to explain every step, and the nursing staff spoke fluent English. By the end of my stay, I felt fully informed and very well looked after.”
(Former patients provide more stories on our Trustpilot page.)

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⁠Is Orthopaedic treatment abroad safe?

Better Care Than the NHS, at Half the Price
I travelled to Kraków for a total knee replacement after waiting 18 months on the NHS list. The clinic was spotless, the staff all spoke excellent English, and the surgeon was clearly experienced. I was walking with a frame by day two. The physiotherapy was more intensive than I expected, which helped with recovery. Including travel and hotel, it still cost less than going private in the UK. Highly recommended.
David R. (Manchester)
Country Visited:Poland
Hip Replacement in Riga – No Regrets
After doing quite a bit of research, I booked a hip replacement in Riga. The hospital looked more like a hotel, and the nursing care was exceptional. I had a private room with a view over the river. Communication was good throughout, with a coordinator who handled airport transfers and appointments. It's now three months later and I’m back to gardening. Would choose Latvia again over private UK care.
Sandra T. (London)
Country Visited:Latvia
Professional, Efficient, and No Hidden Costs
Had my right knee replaced in Warsaw after a friend recommended the clinic. Everything was as described—pre-surgery scans, consultation, surgery, and rehab—all done in under two weeks. No upselling, no unexpected fees. I appreciated how transparent the pricing was compared to some UK providers. Very impressed.
Michael B. (Glasgow)
Country Visited:Poland
Quick Recovery and Excellent Follow-Up
I was nervous about travelling for surgery, but my experience in Latvia was reassuring from start to finish. The surgeon explained everything clearly, and the physiotherapy team worked with me daily. I even had video follow-ups after returning to the UK. I’m walking unaided now, which I hadn’t done properly in over a year. Thank you to the whole team in Riga.
Carolyn M. (Leeds)
Country Visited:Latvia
Superior to My Local NHS Hospital
Opted for hip replacement in Gdańsk due to the NHS backlog. What struck me most was the attention to detail and the level of care. From airport pickup to post-op physiotherapy, everything ran smoothly. They even arranged a companion room for my wife. I had less swelling than after my previous surgery in the UK. Would definitely go abroad again if needed.
James E. (Birmingham)
Country Visited:Poland

Our Orthopaedic Treatments

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Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad

Hip pain and limited mobility can severely impact daily life, making simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting a struggle. For those suffering from arthritis, injuries, or joint problems, the pain can feel relentless. But there's good news—hip replacement surgery offers a solution.
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Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad

Living with knee pain can make everyday tasks exhausting - from walking up stairs to getting out of bed in the morning. If you're facing long NHS wait times or have been told to wait months for surgery, you're not alone. Many in the UK and Ireland are in the same position: in pain, with no clear timeline for relief.
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High Tibial Osteotomy Surgery Abroad

Living with persistent knee pain due to arthritis or joint misalignment can make everyday life frustrating. For many in the UK, the wait to get high tibial osteotomy (HTO) surgery on the NHS stretches into months, sometimes longer. HTO surgery is a joint-preserving procedure that realigns the knee to reduce pressure on the damaged area, easing pain and delaying or avoiding a full knee replacement. If you're waiting too long or facing high private costs, Thera Travel offers a trusted way forward.
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ACL Reconstruction Surgery Abroad

Waiting months - sometimes longer - for knee surgery can feel unbearable when every step, twist, or unexpected wobble reminds you that your joint isn’t stable. UK waiting-list backlogs mean many active people are left sidelined, anxious about worsening cartilage damage and the risk of arthritis down the line. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a precision procedure that replaces the torn ligament - usually with a small tendon graft from your hamstring or patella - so the knee can regain full stability and range of motion.
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Hip Arthroscopy Surgery Abroad

If you've been told your hip pain will "settle over time" or you've been left waiting with only exercises and no progress, you're not alone. Many NHS patients face long delays and limited options, even when dealing with clear joint damage like impingement or labral tears.
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Femoral Osteotomy Surgery Abroad

Femoral osteotomy is a specialised orthopaedic procedure designed to realign the femur and improve joint function, most often performed in cases of hip dysplasia, leg length discrepancies, or abnormal joint loading. If you’ve been advised this surgery but are facing long NHS wait times, you’re not alone. Many patients are left in limbo, unsure when relief will come. That’s where Thera Travel steps in.
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PCL Reconstruction Surgery Abroad

Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to repair a torn ligament at the back of the knee. If you’re facing long NHS delays or struggling with knee instability, Thera Travel offers a faster, trusted solution. We arrange PCL reconstruction surgery abroad with top-tier orthopaedic clinics, giving you rapid access to expert care at a more affordable price.